Jonas Gundersen’s Journey from NIP to Continuum X Group
In 2024, Jonas Gundersen, former COO of Ninjas in Pyjamas (NIP), embarked on a new venture by founding Continuum X Group (CXG). This company is tailored to operate at the crossroads of investment, advisory, and venture-building with a strong emphasis on shaping the future of esports and gaming.
Continuum X Group and VentureLabs
Continuum X Group’s first significant project is CXG VentureLabs, a venture studio dedicated to creating and nurturing new initiatives within the esports sector. This project is a collaborative effort, developed as a joint venture with Bifrost Studios, which has pledged a $2 million investment. The goal is to unify and amplify efforts in the esports industry.
From NIP’s Success to New Beginnings
Reflecting on his time with NIP, Gundersen describes it as an incredible journey. Under his leadership, NIP transformed into a global brand, navigated a merger, and went public on Nasdaq, all during the challenging times of the COVID pandemic. Despite these achievements, Gundersen felt it was the right moment to step away and pursue his entrepreneurial spirit.
His decision to launch Continuum X Group stems from a desire to serve the esports community effectively. Rather than asking what kind of company to create, Gundersen focused on what esports needs now and worked backward to form CXG. The company operates across three primary areas: advisory, venture building, and investments.
Philosophy and Approach of VentureLabs
VentureLabs, as part of CXG, focuses on the hands-on building of new and existing ventures. With expertise in development, digital products, growth, and technology, VentureLabs aims to create synergies across the esports landscape. The philosophy centers on collaboration, working with the community and stakeholders to enhance existing initiatives rather than reinventing the wheel.
Identifying and Building Ventures
VentureLabs follows a few key principles in choosing ideas and building them into scalable businesses.
- Firstly, they assess distribution models to ensure ventures reach their intended audiences through esports’ existing network.
- Secondly, monetization is crucial. Successful ventures must offer clear value to users and stakeholders, which translates into financial viability.
- Lastly, the ventures need to align with the ethos of esports, generating excitement and long-term commitment from those involved.
Future of Continuum X Group
Looking ahead, Gundersen envisions CXG expanding its reach. VentureLabs marks a significant step in this direction, focusing on hiring the right talent and launching new ventures. The next phase involves strengthening the investment side by raising a fund of around $15 million in 2025. This will enable CXG to fully activate its three verticals: advisory, venture building, and investments, supporting growth within and outside their studio.
Gundersen’s Perspective on Returning to Team Management
Gundersen hasn’t ruled out a return to team management in the future. While he currently enjoys a break from the pressures of performance management, he acknowledges the thrill of building great teams and the electric atmosphere of esports competitions. Whether or not he returns to team management will depend on various factors, but it remains a potential part of Continuum X Group’s broader vision.
