Beyond Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Ambitious Leap to 25,000 Startups by 2030

In a major push to expand its startup ecosystem beyond Bengaluru, the Government of Karnataka has approved the Karnataka Startup Policy 2025–2030, setting an ambitious target of establishing 25,000 new startups over the next five years. Backed by an outlay of ₹518.27 crore, the policy aims to nurture 10,000 ventures outside Bengaluru, particularly in Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Kalaburagi, positioning Karnataka as a truly pan-state innovation hub.

The new policy is designed to build future-ready companies across high-impact sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, quantum computing, semiconductor design, clean energy, and agritech. It focuses on strengthening the entire startup lifecycle — from funding, incubation, and mentorship to market access, global partnerships, and regulatory support.

The policy also expands Karnataka’s Global Innovation Alliances (GIA) initiative, which connects local startups to international ecosystems across 30+ countries, enabling cross-border collaborations, co-innovation, and access to overseas markets.

“With this policy, we want ideas born in Karnataka to scale fast and solve real problems for India and the world,” said Priyank M. Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for IT, BT, and Rural Development, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering a globally competitive innovation landscape.

Industry experts have welcomed the announcement, noting that this inclusive approach will help decentralize innovation and create vibrant micro-ecosystems across the state. By supporting regional incubators and universities, the policy aims to encourage young innovators in smaller cities to transform their ideas into scalable, sustainable businesses.

Key highlights of the Startup Policy 2025–2030 include:

• A ₹518.27 crore fund dedicated to startup development and innovation programs.

• Focus on 10,000 startups beyond Bengaluru, promoting balanced regional growth.

• Dedicated support for deep tech, cleantech, and sustainability-focused startups.

• Expansion of Global Innovation Alliances for global exposure and partnerships.

• Streamlined regulatory and funding frameworks for early and growth-stage startups.

The initiative is expected to generate new opportunities, drive employment, and reinforce Karnataka’s position as India’s innovation capital. With a clear roadmap and inclusive vision, the state is set to enter a new phase of entrepreneurship—one that empowers innovators from every corner of Karnataka to shape the future of India’s technology-led economy.