Government of Karnataka

The Government of Karnataka administers the state's technology and startup ecosystem, with Bengaluru serving as its primary hub. Through the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T and the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), the state operates startup-support programmes, including the Elevate initiative. Elevate offers grant-in-aid of up to ₹50 lakh to early-stage startups selected through a competitive evaluation process, with dedicated tracks such as Elevate Women and scale-up cohorts.

The state's support framework includes the Karnataka Startup Policy, which channels a state Fund of Funds through SEBI-registered AIFs, along with Idea2PoC grants for proof-of-concept work and the New Age Innovation Network (NAIN) for student and academic innovation. A network of incubators and Centres of Excellence spans sectors such as AI, robotics, cybersecurity, aerospace, animation/VFX and biotech, while the Beyond Bengaluru initiative extends the ecosystem to Mysuru, Hubballi and Mangaluru.

The programme focuses on deeptech, AI/ML, SaaS, biotech and life sciences, fintech, cleantech, aerospace and defence, and emerging technologies. Eligibility is limited to DPIIT-recognised, Karnataka-registered startups within prescribed age and turnover limits, with relaxed criteria for women-led and student ventures. Founders seeking non-dilutive grants or Fund-of-Funds access should register on the Karnataka startup portal and monitor Elevate cohorts via karnataka.gov.in or startup.karnataka.gov.in.