The Karnataka government has unveiled an ambitious initiative called the DeepTech Decade’, announcing an investment of over Rs 600 crore to strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship in advanced technology sectors. The plan aims to position Karnataka as the DeepTech capital of India, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and sustainability-driven innovations.
IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge stated that the state’s blueprint for the initiative is ready and that Karnataka is determined to play a global role in the technology landscape. As part of the plan, Rs 150 crore has been allocated for the DeepTech Elevate Fund, primarily targeting AI and frontier technologies.
To expand innovation beyond the capital, Rs 80 crore will be channelled through the Elevate Beyond Bengaluru Fund to encourage startups in Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Kalaburagi. Additionally, Rs 75 crore will be invested through the karnataka Information Technology Venture Capital Fund (KITVEN), providing equity funding between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 2 crore for deeptech and AI startups.
The government also plans to set up new incubators and accelerators at IIT and IIIT Dharwad and Kalaburagi, allocating Rs 48 crore for the same. To nurture early-stage innovation, Rs 110 crore will be distributed across 11 institutions previously approved by the state cabinet, marking a major step toward deepening Karnataka’s technology-driven growth.
