The Karnataka government has announced an ambitious ‘DeepTech Decade’ initiative, pledging over Rs 600 crore to nurture startups and entrepreneurs working on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and sustainability-driven innovation.

The initiative marks a major step in the state’s mission to establish itself as the DeepTech capital of India, reinforcing Karnataka’s position as a national leader in technology and innovation.

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Building the DeepTech Capital of India

“Our blueprint is ready, and we are serious about being global players in the technology landscape,” said Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for IT & BT.

As part of the plan, the government will deploy targeted funding across multiple innovation programs and regional hubs to strengthen the DeepTech ecosystem beyond Bengaluru.

Funding Allocation and Regional Focus

Out of the Rs 600 crore earmarked for the DeepTech push, several key funds and programs have been outlined:

Rs 150 crore for the DeepTech Elevate Fund: Dedicated to startups innovating in AI and frontier technologies.

Rs 80 crore for the Elevate Beyond Bengaluru Fund: Designed to promote startup growth in Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Kalaburagi.

Rs 75 crore through KITVEN (Karnataka Information Technology Venture Capital Fund): To provide equity-based investments between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 2 crore for DeepTech and AI ventures.

Rs 48 crore to set up new incubators and accelerators at IIT Dharwad and IIIT Dharwad and Kalaburagi, fostering early-stage innovation.

Rs 110 crore to support 11 academic institutions already cleared by the state cabinet for seed-level research and development.

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A Blueprint for the Future

Through this initiative, Karnataka aims to deepen its technology roots across sectors while encouraging research-driven entrepreneurship in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

With focused investments, academic partnerships, and a vision for inclusive innovation, the ‘DeepTech Decade’ initiative seeks to build a sustainable foundation for India’s next wave of technological leadership