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Karnataka Government Powers Deeptech Surge with Rs 1,000 Cr Startup Boost!

Swarnadwip Nath Published Nov 20, 2025, 12:19 PM Updated Sep 16, 2026, 10:33 PM

The Karnataka government has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to bolster deeptech startups by offering special grants ranging from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 45 crore, backed by a combined fund of over Rs 1,000 crore including venture capital contributions. The move aims to accelerate innovation across AI, quantum computing, space tech, and more.

At the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, the Karnataka government announced an ambitious support framework for deeptech startups through its Elevate Next (Deeptech) programme. This initiative will provide grants between Rs 50 lakh and Rs one crore to 40 selected startups, alongside a larger joint fund pool exceeding Rs 1,000 crore created in partnership with 16 venture capital firms.

Strategic Investment Boost

The government’s direct contribution amounts to Rs 663 crore, complemented by Rs 430 crore from private venture capital, creating a robust ecosystem for emerging deeptech ventures.
Financial support will cover startups developing cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, space tech, and sustainability-driven innovations.

Expanding the Deeptech Ecosystem

The Elevate Next programme marks a continued commitment to fostering deeptech entrepreneurship, with nearly 1,200 startups having benefited from previous government grants and mentorship under the broader Elevate initiative.
New investments will also fund incubators and accelerators at premier institutions such as IIT Dharwad, IIIT Dharwad, and Kalaburagi, further strengthening Karnataka's R&D infrastructure.

Driving Regional Innovation Clusters and Excellence

The government has earmarked Rs 90 crore to establish six globally benchmarked Centres of Excellence focusing on frontier technologies.
An additional Rs 25 crore has been designated to launch innovation labs in schools statewide, nurturing the next generation of deeptech innovators.

Vision for the Deeptech Decade

IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge emphasized Karnataka’s resolve to transform from leapfrogging to pole-vaulting in technology leadership by attracting global talent and investment and solidifying the state as a deeptech powerhouse.
This initiative exemplifies Karnataka’s strategic drive to harness emerging technologies for economic growth, job creation, and positioning India prominently on the global tech map.

Sources: Indian Express, YourStory, Business Standard, Moneycontrol, Government of Karnataka official releases

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