Policy Framework, Vision, and Strategic Objectives

The Karnataka Startup Policy covers an operative term spanning the period from 2022 to 2027.

Building upon the pioneer baseline, Karnataka formulated the first start-up policy in 2015.

The policy framework aims to position Karnataka as a ‘Champion State’ in the country’s startup sector.

It specifically aims to stimulate the growth of 25,000 start-ups throughout the state ecosystem.

A core focus drives the ‘Beyond Bangalore’ initiative to decentralize industrial and technological growth.

It actively builds emerging technology clusters across tier-two cities including Mysuru, Hubballi, and Mangaluru.

This regional diversification ensures balanced socioeconomic development and equitable innovation outside the capital.

Incubation Networks, Funding Mechanism, and Deep Tech Focus

The policy establishes 50 New-Age Innovation Network (NAIN) centres in institutions of higher learning.

Among these, 35 NAIN centres are dedicated to IT/electronics institutions.

The remaining 15 NAIN centres are specifically established within biotechnology institutions.

To fuel early-stage ventures, the government instituted a dedicated ₹100 crore venture capital fund.

This ₹100 crore fund provides risk capital to support emerging deep tech startups.

Priority funding covers high-impact sectors including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Electric Vehicles (EVs).

It also accelerates advancements across medtech, robotics, drones, and other next-generation technologies.

These interventions foster a resilient pipeline of high-growth technology enterprises statewide.