DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS, IT, Bt AND S&T, GOVERNMENT OF KARNATAKA, Booklet

Helping Startups T ransform Dreams into
Reality (Idea2PoC - Elevate Scheme)

About the Scheme

Startups, especially at early stages, are often bootstrapped with limited access to
external funding. To address this challenge, Government of Karnataka launched
the first of its kind Idea2PoC-Elevate scheme to nurture innovative startups and
provide them the necessary ‘ignition fund’ to turn their idea into a sustainable
business. The scheme aims to provide entrepreneurs access to funds, mentorship,
networking opportunities and incubation facilities. Karnataka was the first state
in the country to provide grant-in-aid to startups without taking equity.

Programs Conducted under the Idea2PoC scheme

- Elevate General
- Elevate Unnati (for SC/ST entrepreneurs)
- Amrita Startups (for OBC, Minority, Women- Beyond Bengaluru, SC/ST)

2021 programs

51

Evaluation Process ELEVATE 2021 HIGHLIGHTS

A rigorous and thorough evaluation and selection process • Government received an overwhelming response for
has been adopted, where the Government plays the role Elevate 2021 where more than 1000 + applications were
of the facilitator that brings together industry experts and received. Winner’s profile of Elevate 2021 reflected a More
entrepreneurs on a common platform. Selected startups are Inclusive and Diverse Group- 107 startups were selected,
provided a one-time Grant-in-Aid of up to INR 50 Lakhs under representing 13 districts and across 12 sectors such as IT,
Elevate and INR 25 lakh under Elevate Unnati and Amrita Agriculture, ESDM, CleanTech, FinTech, MedTech, Tourism,
Startups programs. This fund is released in tranches based on Kannada & Culture etc. 32 per cent of the winners were
the life cycle of the business plan and milestones. In addition from Beyond Bengaluru region and 29 percent of the
to this, Government organized a full day mentoring sessions winners were women entrepreneurs.
by industry experts for the all the semi-finalist with an aim to
prepare and guide the startups on making an impactful pitch ELEVATE Unnati: To promote Elevate Unnati (SC/ST)
presentation. startups founded/ led by
entrepreneurs from the SC/ Year No. of Grant Amount
ELEVATE Program Highlights ST category in the State, a Startups (INR Crore)
unique Elevate Unnati program
has been conducted by the 2019 20 4

2020 18 2.75

2021 23 4.15

Government since 2019. Under the program, startups were

ELEVATE Program Highlights encouraged to present their pitch to the jury in local language.

A total of 61 startups have been selected under the Elevate

• The Idea2PoC -Elevate scheme has helped innovators Unnati and supported with a committed funding of INR 10.9
and entrepreneurs advance their ideas closer to
commercialization in the form of creation of startup Crore over the last 3 years
companies, technology licenses or help them become
venture ready. In addition to this, they are also able to raise AMRITA STARTUPS 2021: To commemorate the occasion of
more funds from external agencies. Till date, 14 calls have the 75th year of India’s Independence, Amrita Startups 2021
been invited and around a total of 726 Startups have been was launched for identifying 100 Innovative Startups by SC / ST,
selected and are being supported by the Government. OBC , Minorities and Beyond Bengaluru Women Entrepreneur
under the Idea2PoC Scheme. A total of 108 startups have
• In the last 3 years the Elevate program has gained been selected under the Amrita Startups 2021 and are being
significant momentum where a total of 315 startups have supported with a committed funding of INR 18.35 Crore.
been selected and supported with a committed funding of
INR 79.4 Crore

Year Elevate (General) Grant Amount
(INR Crore)
2019 No. of Startups 26.75
2020 26.5
2021 95 26.15
113
107

52

Tapping the potential of Vehicles, MedTech, Robotics, drones, and such other disruptive
Women- ELEVATE WoMEN companies across all sectors, having a potential to grow
drastically and create employment. The Fund has dedicated
Government’s progressive policies have gained the State the focus to encourage women-led startups and entrepreneurs
distinction of being the Most Supportive State Government for from Tier II and Tier III cities which will further raise the status
encouraging entrepreneurship among women. Government is of Karnataka as the deeptech hub of the world.
committed and focused in putting forth a robust agenda to shift
gears on promoting the cause of women empowerment and Channelizing Innovation for
entrepreneurship in the State. To support women entrepreneurs Social Impact - Grand Challenges
in the State, a program called Elevate Women Entrepreneurship Karnataka (GCK)
(Elevate WomEN) was announced with INR 5 Crore outlay in
the budget presented in 2021. Karnataka Innovation and The Grand Challenges program is a unique innovation
Technology Society (KITS) has selected 7 agencies to run program that identifies societal problems linked to
acceleration and incubation programs exclusively for women sustainable development goals in consultation with other
led startups across the state. Approximately 100 women State government departments. The problem statement is
startups are being incubated/accelerated under this program. then refined and thrown open for startups, innovators and
individuals to propose potential solutions to the problem. The
Channeling Funding for Startups selected startups under the program will receive a funding
support of INR 10 lakhs for piloting and INR 50 lakhs for scaling
Bengaluru, known as the “Silicon Valley of India” raised a total their solution.
VC Funding of USD 21 billion as compared to the global average
of USD 4.5 billion during 2017-2021. Further, the total early- To find feasible and scalable solutions for prevailing urban
stage funding recorded by Bengaluru stood at USD 2.1 billion mobility problems, Karnataka State Mobility Grand Challenge
as compared to the global average of USD 687 million, for was launched in Jan 2022 in association with Directorate of Urban
the period 2019 -2021. This is a testimony to the unmatched Land Transport (DULT) with the following problem statements:
efforts the State Government has put to build on its thriving
tech ecosystem. To propagate the exponential pace and give a 1. Develop a product for energy efficient sweeping of narrow
thrust to the ever-growing innovation ecosystem in the State, lanes like cycle tracks.
Government of Karnataka has established the Venture Capital
Fund of INR 100 Crore that will not only support the state in 2. Develop contact less enforcement solution to identify
maintaining its leadership position in the innovation spectrum, violation in use of cycle lanes.
but also accelerate the emerging tech companies across
Karnataka. The comprehensive objective of the fund is to 3. Develop an App/ Online tool that can help government
support emerging, innovative and deeptech startup companies authorities to capture the accident information on site with
in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Electric minimal manual inputs.

4. Develop Intelligent Grievance Redressal System for Public
Transport using AI/ML.

53

Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Entrepreneurships among Students

The New Age Innovation Network (NAIN) is one of the Government’s pioneer efforts to further boost innovation and entrepreneurship at
higher education institutes. NAIN centres have been established by the Government in three phases in 30 Engineering Colleges across 18
districts in the Karnataka (Tier-I & II Cities). The students from different disciplines are motivated by mentoring, developing & project funding
to set up their own startups or self-employment. Under NAIN each selected student project in the college is provided funding of upto INR
3 lakhs, the students are encouraged to identify local problems and address those problems using concepts of frugal innovation, and to
develop appropriate technology-based solutions and working prototypes. The mentors assigned to the students help them to formulate a
Business Model based on this new technology and encourage them to think like entrepreneurs. Additionally, an annual funding support of
INR 10 lakhs is provided to each NAIN institution towards operational expenditure. The NAIN portal has been upgraded to give more visibility
to the activities being conducted at the NAIN centres and the projects being undertaken by the Students Till date the success story of NAIN
centres entails: 2569 Engineering and Non-engineering students benefited, 653 projects funded, 278 prototypes completed, 20 project
ideas have been filed for patent and 50 companies incorporated. Over the last three years, despite the ongoing pandemic, NAIN centre
has completed 174 prototypes, constituted 50 companies and have filed 20 patents. It is envisaged to set up 11 and 9 new NAIN centres
in Phase IV and Phase V at a total cost of INR 20 crores and also infrastructure in the NAIN institutions will be augmented by setting up
innovation labs with ‘Do-it-Yourself (DIY)’ kits.

Regulatory Sandboxes: A Tool for University (KLE Tech Park) to launch the Hubballi ESDM
Fostering Innovation Exchange (HEX) Program in December 2020. The Very Large-
Scale Integration (VLSI) Incubation at KLE Tech Park in Hubballi
Given the imperative need, Government of Karnataka enacted is the first campus selected for piloting this initiative and is
the Karnataka Innovation Authority (KIA) Act 2020 for the re-branded as Hubballi ESDM eXchage - (HEX)- A dedicated
creation of Regulatory Sandboxes to enable and test innovative incubation centre for startups in the ESDM sector. It has a
technologies in the State. Under the KIA Act, a regulatory state-of-the-art “Idea to Prototype ESDM Lab” facilitate
sandbox is defined as “the exemptions or modification of any prototype development activities of the startups.
laws, along with conditions prescribed under this Act, under
which any participant may offer goods or services to the public”. The Incubation centre spans over 5000 sqft of area with all the
required amenities to host ESDM Startups. State has supported
Hubballi ESDM Exchange (HEX) with a contribution of INR 3.2 Crore towards this initiative.
Program The centre shall provide technical guidance and advisory
support to startups on intellectual property (IP) creation,
Hubballi, a major commercial Tier-II city in North Karnataka, is product & chip design with validation of proof of concept, legal,
known for its strong industry presence, after Bengaluru. To tap administrative assistance and access to markets and funds
the potentials of the city and channelize it towards building a through investor networks. Startups shall also have access to
world-class industrial ecosystem, Government of Karnataka the hardware/chip design, testing and validation facility, high
in collaboration with India Electronics & Semiconductor end EDA tools, remote and easier connectivity to design tools
Association (IESA) have partnered with KLE Technological and equipment and other facilities for fast prototyping and
specific ESDM requirement.

54

Combat COVID Challenge in 2020 E-Step Entrepreneurship programme was conducted in
the year 2019 in 19 districts and 30 NAIN Colleges with
Government supported innovators and startups to launch 22 participation of 5000+ students.
products/ solutions to help fight COVID-19 under its Combat
COVID Challenge 2020. The products included Internet of The E-Step EDP & Bootcamps in the year 2020 was organized
Things (IoT), radiation-free and touch-less solutions to tackle as a daylong Bootcamp in 21 New Age Innovation Network
the pandemic. Six startups were supported by the Bengaluru Institutions across 14 districts of the State with a participation
Bio-Innovation Centre (BBC) under the aegis of Karnataka of 8000+ students.
Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) and 16 products were
supervised by the Karnataka Startup Cell. The 16 startups- World class
whose innovations were selected in the Combat COVID-19 State-of-the-Art
Challenge were offered a slew of incentives by the Karnataka K-Wings Incubation
Startup Cell. The sops included free incubation for six months, Facility
free access to common instrumentation facilities for two
months to build prototypes among others. Government has set up
a world class K-Wings
E-Step Entrepreneurship incubation facility which offers
Programme subsidized incubation space,
physical workspace (Plug &
The Karnataka E-Step Bootcamps were curated in order to Play), support services (HR/
strengthen the young and innovative studentpreneurs of the Legal/Accounting etc.), access
State located in various Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). to network of investors,
The E-Step Bootcamps focuses on mentoring and specific mentors, industry experts and
Entrepreneurship development programs. access to Startup Kits.

55

Centres of Excellence (CoEs)

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

(2019 -20, 2020-21 & 2021-22)

56

The Centres of Excellence (CoE) are established in various sectors to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in the
State of Karnataka with funding support of over Rs. 250+ Cr. There are 11 Centres of Excellence in the State set up
in association with industry partners in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, Robotics,
IoT, Cyber Security, AVGC, Aerospace & Defence and others.

K-tech Centre of Excellence in Aerospace and Defence

The K-tech CoE A&D was established in 2017 in collaboration with Karnataka State Council for Science & Technology (KSCST) as the
implementation agency with the objective of skill development and providing high-end training and industry-ready manpower to the
Aerospace and Defence sector in Karnataka. The contribution from Government of Karnataka is Rs.33.46 Cr in Phase I and Rs.1.86 Cr in
Phase-2. The Centre imparts Skill Enhancement, Aerospace Domain Knowledge, R&D and Consultancy Projects, Creating Prototypes
and other similar activities to Engineering Students / Graduates, Industry Professionals, Startups & MSME’s, Academic Institutions and
Industrial Houses. Further, K-tech CoE A&D provides Startups & MSME’s the use of the facility, Mentorship support and opportunity to create
digital prototypes, explore their project under guidance of experts and carry out design & development activities and other technical aspects.

K-tech Centre of Excellence in Aerospace and Defence 313
No. of students trained under various courses 7
No. of MoU signed to provide Training & Mentorship 180
No. of Placements, Placement Assistance & Letters of Reference issued 102 Man Hours
Mentorship Support for Start-up 910 Man Hours
Workshops for Industry professionals 54 Hours
Value Stream Webinars

K-tech Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security

The Centre was formed in 2017 by Govt. of Karnataka in collaboration with Karnataka State Council for Science & Technology (KSCST)
as the Implementation Agency located at IISC, as part of the Technology Innovation Strategy, to promote the cyber-safe and conducive
environment for industry collaboration, address the skill gaps, build awareness and facilitate innovation in the emerging technology field
of cyber security. The CoE also facilitates standardization and best practices for information security across industry domains, research and
development and technical training programme in Cyber Security. The State is coming up with a Cyber Security Policy shortly to strengthen
its cyber safe ecosystem.

57

Key Achievements:

K-tech Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security

No. of Districts, Students and Teachers covered in Cyber security awareness workshops 10 Districts

targeted at school and college students 7977 students

235 teachers

Introduced Karnataka’s first cybersecurity-specific accelerator- H.A.C.K (Accelerator for Cyber security in Karnataka)

As part of capacity building, the number of awareness sessions and webinars with respect 10+ sessions/webinars

to cyber security

No. of Faculty members covered under Faculty Development programme Around 30

Conducted a hackathon captioned “Cyber security in Digital India with AI/ML & Blockchain” at MS Ramaiah Institute of Technology in

collaboration with Virtusa India Pvt. Ltd

K-tech Centre of Excellence on Internet of Things (IoT) in collaboration with NASSCOM

The K-tech Centre of Excellence on Internet of Things (IoT) was formed in 2016 in collaboration with NASSCOM, a Digital India Initiative
to jump start the IoT ecosystem in India and help Indian IoT Startups leverage cutting edge technologies to build market ready products/
solutions. The IoT Startups Program aims to build industry capable talent in an entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing Incubation,
Funding, Acceleration, Industry Connect and Mentoring. The contribution of Government of Karnataka is Rs.4.35 Cr for 5 years.

Key Achievements:

K-tech Centre of Excellence on IoT 144
No. of Startups enrolled (including graduated) 1762
No. of Startups impacted 1776
No. of Employment Generated by startups 116
No. of Prototypes showcases (Pilots done by incubatees total) 38
No. of Societal projects Executed (by incubates) 20
No. of IPs created (Filed) (Granted) INR 689 Cr
Fund raised by startups (by year of fund raised) INR 124 Cr
Cumulative Revenue raised made by startups [no of startups' data (some of them may be annual revenue)] 118
Events /Workshops conducted (Organized, met and influenced no of audience) 146
Industries connected (Direct 1-on-1 industry awareness of IoT, no. of audience) 49
Industries Partners (Strategic/Co-create/ Innovation/ Infrastructure/ Technology) 24
Academia Connected 140
Government & International Delegations hosted at CoE (approx @5 person) 91
Valuation in $Mn, no. of startups whose valuation is reported

58

K-tech Fabless Centre of Excellence - the Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL)

Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL), a K-Tech CoE for Fabless formed in 2019, is an initiative towards fostering the fabless
ecosystem in India. The focus of SFAL is around enabling fabless startups, across India and encouraging the creation and development
of Products/IPs from India. This is aimed to develop more electronics products manufacturing facilities in India thereby enhancing the
growth of Indian electronics ecosystem. This initiative is funded by the Govt. of Karnataka through the Karnataka Innovation Technology
Society (KITS) in collaboration with India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), the premier trade body representing the Indian
electronic system design and manufacturing (ESDM) space. The contribution of Government of Karnataka is Rs 21.53 crore over a period
of 5 years. The centre provides Indian fabless semiconductor product companies an easy access to (otherwise exorbitantly expensive)
R&D infrastructure, for e.g. EDA Tools, Design IPs (foundation IPs/ Core IPs), Foundry access – foundry design kits, subsidized test chip
shuttles, Server Farm and other physical infrastructure.

Over the last three years, SFAL has been successful in creating a robust ecosystem for the SFAL companies and made a great progress
by adding more partners to it along with these key achievements:

K-tech Fabless Centre of Excellence- the Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL)

Projects in discussion 18

Cohorts completed 11

Companies in the pipeline 20+

No. of Partners Around 40

No. of mentors & Associates 40+

Funds impact (Direct) INR 18 Cr

Products (IC/IP) 8+

No. of events/Industry Connects/Workshops 74

K-tech Centre of Excellence on Machine Intelligence and Robotics

MINRO Centre established in 2019 in collaboration with International Institute for
Information Technology, Bengaluru (IIIT-Bengaluru) at a cost of Rs. 34.70 Crore to
carry out high quality research in the area of Machine Intelligence and Robotics to
bring in path breaking innovations benefitting the State and the country. The Centre
is characterized as the Best-in-class” COE in Karnataka for Machine Intelligence and
Robotics, involved in fundamental research addressing problems in the Indian context in
a collaborative multi-disciplinary environment in areas related to machine intelligence,
artificial intelligent systems, data analysis, data science, pattern recognition, human-
machine interface and industrial products of robotics and automation. The Centre also
supports development of open-source platforms and data sources, mentor startups
and create value for the technology ecosystem.

Visit by Sri. Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Minister of
Commerce and Industries, Government of India

to MINRO Centre on 19th Sep, 2021

59

Key Achievements:

K-tech Centre of Excellence in Machine Intelligence & Robotics (MINRO)

Total ongoing projects 26

Total Research Publications 48

New research publication submissions 5

Ongoing research collaborations with start-ups/industry partners 4

Research Team (Faculty, Students (PhD, MS, Mtech) and Research Associates) 35

Two-day workshop on AI with Neural Networks in Karnataka 124 Engineering Students

Platinum Sponsor for the first International Conference on AI-ML Systems, an initiative of the COMSNET Association

Report on Factors influencing Competitiveness of Bangalore (and Karnataka) in the emerging AI ecosystem

GIA Partnership with Malmo University, Sweden on research collaboration in olfaction

AI in Fashion and Design Hackathon in collaboration with the French Consulate (with five schools from India and two schools from France

representing Fashion, Design, IT and Management streams)

Virtual Experience Center for Knowledge dissemination

Knowledge series in Kannada – Videos about AI and Robotics concepts

K-TECH Centre of Excellence in Agro Innovation in collaboration with C-Camp

Government of Karnataka in collaboration with C-CAMP and University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) Bengaluru has established Centre
of Excellence for Agri Innovation at C-CAMP in 2018 to foster cutting-edge deep-science/technology innovations in Agriculture and allied
sectors and to increase the presence and representation of Agri-based startups. The Centre provides infrastructure, scientific, technical,
business, funding and other support required to translate viable ideas to successful ventures

Key Achievements:

- First cohort of 5 fellows for National Agri Immersion Program to identify 5 – 10 well-curated agri problems to bring about transformational
change in this sector by addressing these issues with science-driven innovation.

- Launched Agri Grand Challenge with 3 problem statements related to agriculture. Five startups were selected and will be provided with
seed funding upto INR 25 Lakhs, incubation and mentorship support by C-CAMP-UAS, Bengaluru.

- COE- C-CAMP has entered into MOU with Israel, Basel (Switzerland) and Netherlands to support Bio Agri. Startups for Mentoring and
product development.

K-tech Centre of Excellence in collaboration with C-Camp 33
No. of Agri Innovation Solutions 74
No. of Problem Statements identified 38
No. of events conducted 2
No. of partner organizations 17
No. of funding agencies INR 64.5 Cr
Fund raised for the startups

60

K-tech Centre of Excellence for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

The Centre has been established in collaboration with NASSCOM in 2017, as a pivotal initiative of Government of Karnataka with a vision
to put the State in the global map of top 3 premier destinations for Data Science & Artificial Intelligence. The objective of the centre is to
foster disruptive innovation by creating an entrepreneurial eco-system and quality human capital to meet the AI talent requirements. This
centre aims to enable deep research benefiting various industries as well as the Government, accelerate the adoption of AI solutions by
user enterprises and public sector, enable convergence of technological advancements and industry developments with sector specific
innovations and to develop, skill and nurture quality professionals to meet the growing requirements. The total funding of this facility is Rs
11 Crores over a period of 5 years.

Key Achievements:

K-tech Centre of Excellence for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence 86
No. of startups incubated (Physical & Virtual) 50
No. of accelerated startups (Physical & Virtual) 9
No. of Research Projects 4
No. of Societal Solutions 6
No. of Enterprise Solutions 7,164
No. of Trainings (for Students/Faculty/Professionals) 207
No. of Events (Master Class/AiPathshala/Hackathon/TechMentoring/ Investor Connects)

61

K-TECH INNOVATION HUBS

Key Achievements | (2019 -20, 2020-21 & 2021-22)

Common Instrumentation Facilities

Government of Karnataka has established K-Tech Innovation Hubs supported by IKP Knowledge Park across the State to boost the hardware
product startup ecosystem in the State. The chain of hardware product startup incubators spans over 35,000 sq.ft. across 5 cities in Karnataka.
During the period 2019-2022, the 5 K-Tech Innovation Hubs (Common Instrumentation Facilities) located at GTTC Rajajinagar-Bengaluru,
Mysore, Mangalore, Belagavi and Shivamogga have:

- footfall of ~4500+ - 46 startups funded
- 110 workshops conducted - 300+ direct jobs
- 130+ startups incubated/supported - 120 events conducted

K-Tech Innovation Hub, GTTC Rajajinagar-Bengaluru

The K-tech Innovation Hub at GTTC Rajajinagar-Bengaluru has been set up to provide easy accessibility to innovators and startups with world-
class infrastructure in terms of office space, prototyping and manufacturing with access to in-house metal workshop, wood workshops, CNC
Laser cutter (For wood and plastics), 3D printing (FDM & SLA, Electronics testing set up inside the facility. During the period April 2019 to June
2022, a total number of 32 startups have been incubated out of which 21 startups have got funded. The facility has approximately conducted
23 events in the same period.

K-Tech Innovation Hub, Belagavi

Since its inception, the facility has become home to various entrepreneurs and enthusiasts in the region and serves as an alternative to the
existing startup ecosystem of Hubli- Dharwad. The facility provides comprehensive infrastructure in terms of office space, prototyping and
manufacturing, with access to in-house metal workshop, wood workshops, CNC Laser cutter (For wood and plastics), 3D printing (FDM &
SLA and Electronics testing. During the period April 2019 to June 2022, a total number of 31 startups have been incubated out of which 6
startups have got funded. The facility has approximately conducted 33 events in the same period.

K-Tech Innovation Hub, Mangalore

The K-tech Innovation Hub Mangalore has housed a diverse range of startups ranging from Agritech to Data
science. The facility provides infrastructure with access to in-house metal workshop, wood workshops, CNC
Laser cutter (For wood and plastics), 3D printing (FDM & SLA, Electronics testing and access to SolidWorks
tools on a shared license server. During the period April 2019 to June 2022, a total number of 50 startups have
been incubated out of which 14 startups have got funded. The facility has approximately conducted 33 events
in the same period.

62

K-Tech Innovation Hub, Mysore

The K-tech Innovation Hub Mysore provides infrastructure with access to in-house metal workshop, wood
workshops, CNC Laser cutter (For wood and plastics), 3D printing (FDM & SLA and Electronics testing. During
the period April 2019 to June 2022, a total number of 14 startups have been incubated out of which 5 startups
have got funded. The facility has approximately conducted 21 events in the same period.

K-Tech Innovation Hub, Shivamogga

The K-tech Innovation Hub Shivamogga was set up in February 2020 and till date a total number of 5 startups
have been incubated and the facility has approximately conducted 10 events.

K-tech Innovation Hub-NASSCOM

The Government of Karnataka in line with its Information Technology Policy has set up a K-Tech Innovation Hub by NASSCOM, spanning over
an area of 12,000 sq. ft. with a seating capacity of 100. The facility offers subsidized incubation space, physical workspace (Plug & Play),
support services (HR/Legal/Accounting etc.), access to network of investors, mentors, and industry experts etc., access to Startup Kits etc.

The 10,000 Startups Incubate (Warehouse) program is a premium plug-and-play co-working space for tech startups and the program offers
access to a deep and wide-reaching network of investors, mentors, industry experts, and enterprises, that startups can leverage to fast-
track their growth and advancement. From providing a physical workspace to expert guidance and unparalleled networking opportunities,
the Incubate Program is the ultimate place for entrepreneurs to learn, network, and accelerate.

The Key Achievements during the period 2020-21

Incubation Program (Key Numbers April 2021- March 2022) Investor Connect (Key Numbers April 2021- March 2022) Enterprise Connect (Key Numbers April 2021- March 2022)

K-Tech Innovation Hub by IAMAI

K-Tech Innovation Hub at Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has been established in association with IAMAI to strengthen the
mobile app ecosystem in Karnataka with the objective to train mobile application developers and incubate them into entrepreneurship. The
incubation center provides early-stage Apps startups and developers highly affordable incubation space, training center, testing lab and
design center.

Mobile10X a ‘Make in India’ initiative by the IAMAI endeavors to realize the dream of digital India by providing mentorship, guidance and
creating the right environment for entrepreneurs to build high quality digital products for web and mobile. The program was conceptualized in
2015 in association with KITS and is one of the leading startup incubation hubs in the city that has incubated more than 125 startups during
the 6.5 year operation and is having 23 startups in current cohort. The program offers;

- Mentorship by industry experts and domain specialists.
- Advanced tools for testing.
- Specific zones for design & testing
- Regular interactions, seminars and workshops with peers and industry leaders

63

Industry Connect
• Investor Connect
• Global Outreach

Key Achievements Ktech - Mobile10X Bengaluru Hub (2019-2021) include the following.

- Total Number of Seats Available 94 - Startups Incubated 24 - Co-working seats allotted 18
- Incubator Seats 70 - Co-working companies 6 - Testing Lab 1
- Co-working seats 24 - Incubation Seats allotted 35 - Design Lab 1

The Wave 1 Cohort of the Mobile10X Bengaluru Hub 2022 program started in February with a seating capacity of seating capacity of 58
Seats (16 Physical & 42 Virtual). Since the commencement of the program in February 2022, till date 23 startups have been inducted and 16
physical seats and 17 virtual seats have been allotted.

TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS INCUBATORS (TBIS)

Key Achievements | (2019 -20, 2020-21 & 2021-22)

Technology Business Incubator at Manipal – GoK
BioIncubator, MAHE, Manipal

Manipal - Government of Karnataka Bioincubator, is a Technology
Business Incubator, initiative of Manipal Academy of Higher
Education (MAHE), supported by Department of Electronics, IT,
Bt and S&T, Government of Karnataka, and also supported by
Department of Biotechnology’s Biotechnology Industry Research
Assistance Council (BIRAC) under BioNEST programme. This facility
is based on the requirements of the startup and has dedicated
incubation facility, shared incubation facility, tissue culture, and
microfluidic facility, microbiology facility, common instrumentation
facility, plug and play workstations, Class 100 clean rooms,
fabrication room, prototyping facility, electronic testing facility,
analytical testing facility and provide linkages to external facilities.

64

Till date the Bioincubator has supported 26 Incubatee Companies
from Medical innovations, Tissue engineering, Bioprinting & 3D Organ
development, Microfluidics, Drug discovery, Nano biotechnology, Medtech
devices, Diagnosis innovation, AI interfaces and Wearable technologies.

Technology Business Incubators at M S Ramaiah University of
Applied Sciences (MSRUAS), Bengaluru

M S Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (RUAS) in the year 2018, has
established Ramaiah Technology Business Incubator (RTBI) supported by
Government of Karnataka. The objective of this Centre is to achieve speedy
commercialization of the technologies developed by the host Institutions to
promote and nurture novel technology/innovation-based startups and build
a vibrant startup ecosystem, by establishing network between MSRUAS,
financial institutions, industries and other institutions. Fifteen startups
have been registered at RTBI, in total 29 exposure events were organized
by the institute.

Technology Business Incubator at Centre for Nano Science and
Engineering (CeNSE), IISc, Bengaluru

With a focus on Nanotechnology, Deep Science and Inter-disciplinary startups
TBI was established at CeNSE, IISc. Currently there are 6 incubatees at the
centre and one has been graduated and 2 are pre-Incubatees. TBI has
conducted more than 25 events (workshops, one to one sessions, webinars)
on wide ranging topics relevant to startups like IP, funding, investor
connect, etc. involving eminent speakers from Industry, Investor, Technical
Expert community.

Technology Business Incubator for MedTech & Geriatric
Healthcare at Centre for Product Design and Manufacturing
(CPDMED), IISc, Bengaluru.

Centre promotes innovation and entrepreneurship of Startups by facilitating
translation of technology ideas, designs and innovation in various disciplines
of science and engineering into solutions in the area of Medical Technology
and Geriatric Healthcare with regulatory compliance and commercialization
for the benefit of the society. The services include working space for the
startups at “Hatchery”, high confidence pre compliance testing facilities in the
areas of Usability Testing Facility, Medical Simulations & Electronic Testing
Facility, Environmental Testing Facility, Mechanical testing facility, Chemical
Testing facility and Biological testing Facility & services. Currently 17 startups
are incubated at the centre.

653

Key Initiatives of

KDEM 2021-22

66

KDEM, a Section 8 company, promoted by
the Government of Karnataka in association
with NASSCOM, IESA and ASSOCHAM.

Led by Industry anchors with a core objective of

‘By the industry and For the industry’

KDEM aims to bring even growth of investments and employment opportunities
under Beyond Bengaluru Mission to its emerging tech clusters like Mysore,
Mangalore and Hubli. KDEM will encourage MNCs/GCCs tech-hubs in Bangalore
to create the Spokes in these clusters through its Spoke-Shore strategy.
Bengaluru became a popular destination for global companies to setup their
offshore operations.
The Spoke-shore strategy where the hub is the base and spoke is a footprint
in one of the clusters. The spokes have talent, infrastructure, shared services
and full-fledged IT services model with the flexibility to scale up as required.
Policy benefits are available to companies to implement this strategy in Beyond
Bengaluru clusters.
KDEM will handhold companies through the whole process, which is the Spoke-
shore strategy.
KDEM has developed an ecosystem in the clusters for infrastructure and talent
which connects with real estate developers and local colleges.

67

1 KDEM OFFICES ESTABLISHED: Launch and operationalization of three

functional Beyond Bengaluru clusters- Mysuru, Mangaluru & Hubbali, with their
dedicated offices. They are pivotal in driving investments in IT/ITES and ESDM sectors,
by the virtue of their strong industry and academic association.

2 GCC Spoke-Shore Strategy 6 Niveus Solutions

At the outset of the pandemic, as companies are recognising Niveus Solutions grounded with 200 resources in Mangaluru.
the need for a better working model, a new evolved concept of
spoke-shore- with a GCC setting up a spoke office in Beyond 7 Nagarro Technologies
Bengaluru clusters gained momentum. Coupled with the ease
of doing business, city liveability, and talent aspects, the Spoke- Nagarro Technologies has 200 people in Mysuru.
Shore strategy of KDEM created a positive impact in the state’s
growth story with companies of the like of IBM & Glowtouch 8 iMerit and dhiOmics
(employment 300) setting up their Global Delivery Center
in Mysuru; companies like I-Merit (employment 150) being These offices opened in Hubballi cluster with more than 160
grounded for its operations in Hubbali. Within the first year of and 30 employees, respectively.
operations, 25+ companies have started their operations from
the Beyond Bengaluru cluster, generating employment for 9 Global Emerging Technology Design Centre
5000+ people.
Government of Karnataka has approved for establishing a
3 Client Innovation Centre (CIC) Global Emerging Technology Design Centre. This centre would
focus on supporting an ‘Idea to Product’ journey and reinforcing
Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) stimulated the the Make in India vision.
launch of IBM’s “Client Innovation Centre” (CIC) in Mysuru under
its Beyond Bengaluru initiative. Currently employing more than KDEM is spearheading the implementation of the GoK budget
100 resources from Mysuru CIC as on date (July 2022). announcement and Government Order for establishing the
Global Emerging Technology Design Centre to be established
4 Forefront Tech at Hubballi-Dharwad-Belgaum cluster in partnership with
enterprises at an estimated cost of INR 150 Cr.
Forefront Tech established with 200 people in Mysuru and
planning to scale up. Hiring on-going. 10 Global Technology Centre

5 Mindstack Technologies KDEM spearheading the implementation of the GoK budget
announcement and Government Order for establishing the
Opened office of 3,000 sq. ft. with 40 employees in Mangaluru. Global Technology Centre at Mysuru at an expenditure of INR
Looking to add talent. 30 crore in a period of two years. In the year 2022-23, INR 10
Cr. will be provided for this purpose.

68

11 Innovation Hubs / Clusters
Centre’s for Excellence:

1. Centre for Excellence in Cyber Security at Mysuru-
Cyberverse launched in June 2021.

2. Centre for Excellence in AI and Data at Hubbali is being
worked out with ARTPARK.

12 Establishing Electronics
Manufacturing Clusters in Karnataka

The cities of Mysuru and Hubballi in Karnataka has been
selected for setting up the two Electronics Manufacturing
Clusters by the Govt. EMC in Hubballi would be spread over
200 acres and is expected to bring investments of over INR
300 crores and is expected to generate employment of above
2,000 jobs. 11 LoI’s have already been received from interested
electronics companies. The DPR for the project has been
prepared and the application under the EMC2.0 scheme of
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government
of India has been submitted

The Mysuru cluster would be spread over 230 acres of land
and is expected to bring in investment of over INR 1,300 Cr.
with over 1,200 direct employment. LoI’s from 7 interested
companies have already been received.

13 Multi Tenancy Clean Room Facility

Government of Karnataka has approved for establishing
a multi-tenancy clean room facility in Mysuru. This
infrastructure would boost the semiconductor ecosystem
and infrastructure in the state. This facility would also
bolster the manufacturing ecosystem in the state
viz. automotive, pharmaceutical, etc. sectors.

69



14 Beyond Bengaluru Startup Grid

Beyond Bengaluru Start-Up Grid is one of the flagship initiatives of KDEM which
aims to create and augment the Start-Up ecosystem in the Beyond Bengaluru
clusters. Beyond Bengaluru Start-Up Grid is a unique platform for connecting various
tech-related start-ups across multiple sectors in the Digital Economy. More than
300 startups have been already onboarded under the grid. The Grid leverages the
advantages of the networks across different stages of the start-ups. These networks
enable startups to access inputs and relevant business-related information to build
on. Grid facilitates access to mentor groups across the broad areas like HR, Legal,
R&D, Accounting services, Marketing & Branding experts, upcoming start-ups in the
grid can leverage on the network to improve their business strategies. The startups
of the grid can access and leverage various services offered by KDEM like Knowledge
Dissemination Series, access to infrastructure, customized products by partners etc.,

15 Beyond Bengaluru Cluster Seed fund

Government of Karnataka has announced to establish Beyond Bengaluru Cluster
Seed Fund exclusively for startups operating outside Bangalore in association with
Industry and other financial institutions. KDEM in association with industry partners
are setting up fund with overall budget of INR 75 Cr. across all the 3 clusters i.e.,
Mysore, Hubballi and Mangalore. The fund of INR 25 Cr. will be invested in tech base
startups which are at the growing stage and part of the respective cluster. Approx.
45-60 startups to benefit from this.

16 Karnataka Acceleration Network opportunities and challenges faced by the fintech ecosystem
in the state, and leverage the partnering institutions and
Government of Karnataka has successfully launched the government to mitigate the challenges. Fintech task group
Grant-in-Aid seed funding program under the Idea2PoC policy consists of fintech industry leaders, state and central
(Elevate) and has supported more than 725+ startups with the government stakeholders and ancillary bodies.
overall budget of INR 150+ Cr. as of 2022. In order to boost
startups for the growth journey especially post elevate stage 20 Karnataka Startup Champion Program
startups and startups who are in growth stage, Government of
Karnataka is creating a next program for growth stage start-ups KDEM has launched a unique program ‘Karnataka Startup
called ‘Accelerate - Network’. Under this network, government Champion’ in collaboration with Doordarshan as a part of
shall encourage setting up of accelerators in Bengaluru and communication strategy in disseminating knowledge and
Beyond Bengaluru clusters like Mysore, Mangalore and Hubli inspiring entrepreneurs across the state especially targeting
as a network. KDEM with the support of Dept of IT BT S&T is Beyond Bengaluru regions. Aim is to inspire, motivate and
establishing the acceleration network. boost the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state specially to
reach out to the budding/potential entrepreneurs in Beyond
17 Enabling Innovation Ecosystem Bengaluru regions. More than 40+ startups and guests have
been featured in the show till date.
KDEM to support and monitor activities of the existing
innovation facilities supported by Karnataka Innovation and 21 Conceptualized the NAVASUTRA Strategy
Technology Society (KITS). KDEM has developed a common
platform for all the innovation ecosystem players supported Accelerate & Transform Karnataka as the global hub for talent
by Department of IT BT S&T like Centre of Excellences (COEs), in the new emerging technologies by Skilling 2 million people
New Age Incubation Centres (NAINs), Technology Business in the new emerging technologies including job earning skills
Incubators (TBIs), K-Tech Innovation Hubs etc., Aim is to by 2026.
monitor the activities, provide Industry connects and develop
sustainability plan for the centres. 22 Future Digital Jobs

18 Silicon Valley Startup Bridge KDEM Launched #FutureDigitalJobs @ Mysuru, Hubballi,
Mangaluru, Kalaburagi & Belagavi with total 2,000+ job
Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) has launched opportunities.
“Startup Silicon Valley Bridge” initiative, which will enable high-
quality talent from Karnataka to work remotely with bay area 23 Report on Gig Workers
startups and gain exposure to emerging technologies in the
United States. KDEM initiated a study on “Job demand estimation for
Gig workers” to embrace the gig economy in the state of
19 Karnataka Fintech Task Group Karnataka.

KDEM in association with Department of Electronics, IT, Bt and 24 Women@Work Initiative
S&T, Government of Karnataka has setup the first Fintech Task
Group and submitted the report for developing Karnataka as a KDEM launched Women@Work Initiative – The core objective
fintech hub. The aim is to make Karnataka a global fintech hub. of Women@Work (W@W) is to strategize programs and
The task groups’ vision has been to work towards creating a enable women to participate and return to the workforce.
projected roadmap for growth of the industry, identifying the This initiative will amplify the industry efforts in increasing
the women participation in the workforce in Karnataka.

72

25 Synergy Event 29 3Phase BTS Events

KDEM organised a Synergy Event for Academia and Industry Three pre-BTS events organized at each of the Beyond
connect – The objective of the event is to bring both academia Bengaluru clusters in the month of October.
and Industry together at one place to share their challenges
and opportunities available to bridge the skill gap available in a) Impact & Innovation @ Hubli organized on 5-October-2021
the local talent ecosystem. We have connected with more than
100 engineering colleges at emerging clusters due to these b) The Big Tech Show @ Mysuru organized on 25-October-2021
efforts.
c) Mangaluru Technovanza organized on 29-October-2021
26 Skill Programs
Each of these three events saw a great positive response from
KDEM designed programs for Niche Skills such as Digital skills, the industry associations like IESA, NASSCOM, ASSOCHAM, TiE
VLSI skills, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comic (AVGC) chapters, CII, and so on. Participation from the industry leaders
skills, Cyber Security skills. This aims in skilling people on Niche and entrepreneurs across the panel discussions organized for
Skills and fills the immediate requirement of talent to the these events saw tremendous participation and leveraged:
various industries.
a) Mysuru for Cyber Security, ESDM, AI/VR
27 Partnership
b) Mangaluru for Fintech
KDEM partnered with Karnataka Skill Development Corporation
to build and manage a comprehensive skilling portal for c) Hubli for AgriTech, EduTech & Industry 4.0
Karnataka called “Karnataka Skill Connect Portal.
30 Policy Talk events
28 Knowledge dissemination series:
Three policy talks conducted with start-ups of Mysuru,
‘Cyber Security-the new normal’ webinar conducted which Mangaluru & HDB cluster, on awareness about the various
launched the Cyber Lancer certificate program, which was policy incentives given by the Government of Karnataka. The
aimed at addressing the challenges faced by India in the wake events saw a participation of 300+ start-ups.
of cyber threats. The event was conducted with an objective of
projecting Mysuru as the Cyber-Security hub. While there were
eminent speakers from RAW, Tel-Aviv University, Industry
leaders from companies like Deloitte, entrepreneurs in the
cyber security space and so on; the participation in the event
was more than 400.

‘AI as the growth engine in the emerging tech clusters of
Karnataka’ webinar conducted, which aimed at projecting the
Hubballi-Dharwad-Belgaum cluster as the hub of AI. Speakers
included representatives from Invest India, JiO, IIIT Dharwad, IIT
Dharwad, and few AI based companies like dhiOmics.

73

Karnataka Unit for International Cooperation

GLOBAL INNOVATION ALLIANCES

74

Background - Global Innovation Alliances (GIA)

Karnataka Unit for International Cooperation (KUIC) was established by the Department of Electronics, Information Technology (IT),
Biotechnology (BT) and Science and Technology (S&T), Government of Karnataka (GoK) in December 2017, as its international cell, with the
objective of curating relationships in innovation, science and technology with various countries and taking them to the next level.
The Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) is an initiative launched with an aim to create a platform for global collaboration on technology and
innovation, and to ensure State of Karnataka is provided an opportunity to showcase its strengths as part of this global tech revolution. The
unique initiative was envisaged as a system of strategic international innovation partnerships for curating existing relationships as well as
fostering new ones with international institutions and partner countries.
In the last 4 years, the GIA initiative under the Government of Karnataka has accomplished the following:
• Collaboration and deep engagements with 30+ partner countries
• 17 GIA Tech Engagement Meets with countries like Vietnam, Canada, France, UK and others
• 1,500+ Start-ups being engaged in projects
• 10+ academic institutions engaged across different projects

Key projects as part of KUIC GIA program

Global Innovation Alliances Tech Engagement Meet (GIATEM)
As part of the GIATEM, a partner country and a focus technology would be selected by the Department, by identifying priorities of GoK and
matching those to relevant international partners.
The purpose of the GIATEM includes the following:
• To learn about country specific trends and updates in technology and innovation from ecosystem partners/visiting experts.
• To identify how to apply the learnings from these meetings to Government of Karnataka initiatives and schemes, and the local innovation

ecosystem.
The Department has jointly hosted multiple GIATEM with various countries over the last few years:

GIA country: Netherlands, Theme: IT and Cybersecurity, Date: 25 May 2018
Outcomes
• The event saw the participation of 35+ attendees, which included startups, students, and researchers from R&D institutions

across Bengaluru.
• Information about Netherlands investment promotion agency, Innovation Quarter, as well as the potential ways in which Karnataka

companies could access Netherlands market was presented to the audience
• Cybersecurity skilling and talent development in Netherlands was discussed.

75

GIA country: France, Theme: IoT, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and FinTech, Date: 7 August 2018

Outcomes

• The event saw participation of 45+ attendees, which mainly included startups from Bengaluru.

• Mr. Siddharth Balachandran, Head, AirbusBizLab Bengaluru, presented a talk about the work being done by Airbus in Bengaluru, and
stories of successful startups incubated at the facility.

• Mr. Deepak N.G, Director, Innovation Business and Global Affairs, Dassault Systèmes, presented to the audience the latest technological
pursuits by Dassault Systemes, particularly in the areas of AI and IoT.

• Mr. Christophe Duprat, Head of Innovation India, Société Générale, Ms. Auriele Gilet, Country Manager, Peech Studio, and Ms. Souad
Tenefiche, CEO, Numa Bangalore, spoke about the innovation ecosystem in Bengaluru and how their respective organizations have been
utilizing this to its maximum potential.

• Mr. Jean-François Ambrosio, Trade and Investment Commissioner to South India, Business France presented to the audience the
collaborations between Karnataka and France, and the ways in which startups, students and other stakeholders may benefit from these,
after which the floor was opened for a Q&A session.

GIA Country: Switzerland, Theme: E-mobility, Date: 10 June 2019 Top comments by the attendees:
Outcomes
• Technological advancements made by Swiss and Karnataka startups in the e-mobility “The overall webinar was
excellent and informative”
field were identified.
• Visibility among Swiss partners was created for Karnataka startups. “Very informative and
• Opportunity was created for collaboration between startups, corporate and Government. interactive sessions”

GIA country: Canada, Theme: Startups, Date: 19 August 2019 “This was a very innovative
Outcomes session & looking forward
• Awareness created about the Canadian visa benefits amongst Karnataka startups / for further collaboration.”

entrepreneurs. “Such webinars need to be
• Karnataka startups were exposed to existing opportunities and startup landscape conducted periodically”

in Canada. “Keen to Collaborate with
• Soft landing opportunities were showcased for Karnataka startups with Canadian Israeli Cyber Security

incubators. Companies at Enterprise
• Success stories of Indian startups expanding to Canada were also presented. and Startups”

76

GIA country: Finland, Theme: Finland Day, Date: 24 October 2019
Outcomes
• Platform for collaboration between the Indian and Finnish Companies in the field of R&D and innovation.
• Platform for collaboration in the field of industrial operations particularly in the Energy and Infrastructure.
• Promotion of transfer of technology and exchange of information between partner organizations in Karnataka and Finland.

GIA country: Israel, Theme: “Israel, a Cybersecurity powerhouse – opportunities for collaboration”, Date: 30 July 2020
Outcomes
• Attendees were able to identify technological advancements made by Israel in the cybersecurity. Attendees, especially the startups were

able to gain lot of insights on the startup ecosystem of Israel as information such as incubation support, mentorship, funding availability
in Israel etc. were presented.
• The webinar provided a platform for the attendees to identify opportunities for collaboration between stakeholders in Karnataka
and Israel.

GIA country: Denmark, Theme: Startup solution created in light of COVID-19 pandemic, Date: 22 October 2020
Outcomes
• Platform was provided to facilitate dialogue between the startups presenting and collaborators from industry, academia and government

– both from Karnataka and Denmark.
• Visibility for innovation of startups on an international scale.
• Relationship between Karnataka and Denmark has furthered strengthened.

Top comments by the attendees:

“Wonderful Sessions. Encouragement for
startups and guidance to overcome challenges“

“It was well managed;
I know how demanding these kinds of sessions are”

77

GIA country: Vietnam, Theme: Invest in Vietnam, Date: 18 August 2021Outcomes
A Global innovation Alliance Tech Engagement Meet was conducted with Republic of Vietnam. The theme of the session was to Invest in
Vietnam, with a focus on High Tech Investment and Start-ups. Vietnam is a new addition to the list of GIA partners for Karnataka and this
was a first ever collaboration between Karnataka and Vietnam on technology and innovation.
Outcomes
• Showcasing opportunity for Karnataka Start-ups to expand to Vietnam and introducing the Startups to Vietnam Accelerators.
• Interaction between CoE SFAL and Vietnam on identifying potential association between start-ups in electronic space an

semiconductor space.
• Strengthening Vietnam as a GIA partner for GoK.

GIA country: Toronto, Theme: Fostering Growth in the Changing Landscape, Date: 19 August 2021
Outcomes
• Registrations: ~220.
• Participants: ~30.
• Platform for Karnataka startups to explore expanding operations in the North America region through Toronto.
• Visibility of key trends in technology and innovation in the Ontario and broader Canadian ecosystem.
• Opportunity for Karnataka startups to engage with key stakeholders of the Ontario tech region.

7X8

GIA country: Finland (Nokia) - Nokia Innovation Day, Theme: 5G technology and allied applications, Date: 2nd to 3rd December 2021

The Department of Electronics, IT,BT and S&T in partnership with Nokia, a Finnish company, hosted a two day event, in line with the Nokia’s
Innovation Day, with the theme: Sustainable technologies that help the world act together.

Day 1: Inaugural of Innovation Day

Key speakers of Nokia, Finland Embassy, CoE for Network Robotics spoke on innovative start-ups in the drone technology and IoT space, panel
discussion with a diverse set of individuals from academia, start-ups, MNC’s among others and participation from 2000+ Nokia’s R&D team.

Day 2: 5G Workshops for Start-ups

Closed door session conducted with 20 Start-ups from Govt of Karnataka to showcase 5G and use cases to start-ups. The aim of the
workshop was to identify few Start-ups from Karnataka interested in a joint collaboration, project or R&D with Nokia in 5G in the future.

Fintech Capability building workshop | Joint collaboration between UK and Karnataka

Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) - Government of United Kingdom and GoK have collaborated for a Fintech
programme to support Karnataka stakeholders in strengthening the Fintech Ecosystem in the State. In this light, a Fintech Capability building
workshop was conducted with several departments of GoK on the below areas:

• Development of Fintech Policy. • FCDO Team.
• Ecosystem development workshops. • PwC team.
• Build the capacity of policy makers and start-ups. • KUIC team.
Participants in the workshop:
• KDEM/Fintech Task Force Group.
• Department of: MSME, Law, Karnataka Udyog Mitra, Skill

Development, Finance.

79

DELEGATION VISITS As participation in this conference was highly desirable to
further collaboration between innovation ecosystems of
Delegation visit to Germany (31 March to 06 April 2019) Germany and Karnataka, a delegation visit to Germany was
undertaken from 13 to 17 May 2019. Apart from the conference,
Four delegates from India visited Berlin, Hannover and several other meetings and visits in Berlin, Dusseldorf and Munich
Munich from 1-5 April 2019 to assess and discuss mutual were tied up, in line with widening the international reach for the
opportunities for collaboration in the startup ecosystem. The 22nd edition of Bengaluru Tech Summit.
Indian delegates represented the Karnataka Startup Cell,
NASSCOM, Axilor and YourStory. They met a cross-section World Economic Forum Visit
of over 80 representatives in Germany over the course of the In December 2019, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka
week, spread across 20+ meetings. was invited by the World Economic Forum to attend the WEF
Annual Meeting. Subsequently, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of
Delegation visit to Estonia (14 May to 17 May 2019) Karnataka attended the Annual Meeting from 21 January to
24 January 2020 along with ministers and senior officials from
As a part of the ongoing relationship with European Commission Government of Karnataka.
and participation of Karnataka in EU India Innovation Network, There were 13 meetings conducted with GoK delegates during
K-tech was invited for a networking session in Tallinn, Estonia the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. Participation
held from 14-15 May 2019. Apart from this, Karnataka in WEF helped in establishing the State of Karnataka as a
stakeholders participated in Latitude59, one of the largest tech global innovation leader and innovation hub of India, in the
conferences in Europe, held from 16-17 May 2019 in Estonia. international forum.
Some of the impactful meetings attended by Karnataka
Delegation visit to USA (31 May to 06 June 2019) delegates included meetings with the World Economic Forum,
Carlsberg Group and Bahrain Economic Development Board
Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Post the initial meetings/ discussions held during the WEF,
Government of Karnataka, led a delegation to Philadelphia, there has been progress made in key areas by the Government
Pennsylvania, to participate in BIO 2019, one of the largest of Karnataka. These include planning for establishing the
biotechnology expos in the world. The delegation included six Center for Internet of Ethical Things (COIET) in IIT-B, finalizing
biotech-startups and they had the opportunity for capacity Bengaluru as a host city for UNLEASH Innovation Labs for
building through exposure visits and workshops. It was an the next planned cycle and strengthening the Government
important platform for the Department of Electronics, IT, BT of Karnataka – Bahrain Economic Development Board
and S&T to showcase Karnataka’s biotechnology ecosystem partnership along the lines of the MoU signed during the WEF
and to learn more about the perspectives of high-level Annual Meeting 2020.
government officials, key thought leaders and experts from
around the world on the new opportunities and challenges
facing the global biotech industry.

Delegation visit to Germany (13 May to 17 May 2019)

To further enhance the cooperation between Germany and
Karnataka, particularly for innovation and startups, Mrs. Margit
Hellwig-Boette (Consul General of Germany in Bengaluru)
and Dr Rainer Seider (Head of Unit Foreign Trade, European
Economic Policy, Development Cooperation at the Senate
Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises,
Germany) invited a delegation from Government of Karnataka,
to attend Asia- Pacific Week 2019, Berlin.

80

Victoria India Government Exchange Program (VIGEP)
VIGEP is 3-year program for policy collaboration between most senior levels of government in states of Karnataka and Victoria (Australia). The
Year One of the program was successfully implemented in the 2019. Six Victorian and six Karnataka Department heads were part of roundtable
discussions and bi-lateral discussions as part of the program. The agenda was two fold:
• To identify bi-lateral collaboration opportunities between the Departments.
• For the Victorian Secretaries to identify potential collaboration opportunities with the other key stakeholders of the Karnataka Ecosystem.
A roundtable discussion on” How can digital transformation in government improve outcomes for citizens” was conducted in light of BTS 2019.
Post this, A one-on-one discussion was conducted between each Department counterpart. This provided an opportunity for a detailed discussion
which led to the identification of a few key areas of common interest to both the counterpart Departments.

Center of Excellence (CoE) - GIA collaboration
A strategic collaboration was set up for GoK’s CoEs with institutions in GIA countries. The overall strategy has the following areas of focus: startups,
skilling, R&D and ecosystem connects. Based on the common interests of both the CoE and the GIA institution, the respective areas of focus is
finalized as part of the MoU. Each MoU has clearly defined deliverables and anchors of project execution as well.

81

Some of the MoUs were signed in light of Bengaluru Tech Summit 2020. Timelines for the signing of the other MoUs have been defined as well.

# GoK Anchor Institution GIA Partner GIA Anchor Institution

1 CoE IoT Sweden Swedish Innovation Arena, Swedish Incubators and Science Parks - SISP
Sweden
2 CoE DS & AI Finland Business Finland
3 CoE DS & AI UK Deputy High Commission office in Bengaluru
4 CoE Cybersecurity The Netherlands Hague Security Delta
5 SFAL USA Applied Materials
State of Indiana, USA for Electric Vehicles, Lifesciences, ICT and education
6 Dept of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T Indiana, USA cooperation.
& Dept of Commerce & Industries Fairfax County in State of Virginia, USA for Aerospace & Defence and Biotech.
Hague Business Agency on Global Innovation Alliance Market Access Program
7 Virginia, USA

8 KITS The Netherlands

GIA Market Access Program

To further the agenda of the Department of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T in strengthening its international partnerships, particularly for startups,
GIA Market Access Program (MAP) was created to support the innovation ecosystem, by helping start-ups explore new markets, establish
international partnerships, and increase global sales.

The program consists of two parts, as follows:

• Outbound: Soft Landing/market access for Karnataka start-ups in GIA partner countries

• Inbound: Soft Landing provided in Ktech Incubators for start-ups from GIA partners

GIA MAP is a reciprocal arrangement with innovation ecosystems of Karnataka and the GIA partner involved with mutual benefit for startup
of both parties. The specifics of the program are customized for each partner depending upon funds available, sectors of collaboration,
expected outcomes, etc.

In 2019, inbound program for MAP was conducted with Germany.

The startups were assigned a mentor each (recommended by NASSCOM) to assist with their overall India strategy: competition mapping,
pricing, business connects, etc. They were given an opportunity to speak at Bengaluru Tech Summit. One-on-one meetings were arranged
with potential clients / industries that could help grow the startup

Global Innovation Alliance Partners

82

Govt. of Karnataka has created a system of Global Innovation Alliances (GIAs)

This initiative has been created to explore collaboration with leading innovation economies of the world.
We currently have around 20 GIA partners and the Stakeholders in these countries include Governments,

academic institutions, startup incubators, universities, and large tech companies.

For startups, we have curated programs such as :

GIA Market Access Program to help startups enter new global markets and establish international partnerships
GIA Tech Engagement Meet: to introduce Karnataka startups to GIA country startup ecosystem for collaboration

83





KARNATAKA UNIT FOR INTERNATIONAL
COOPERATION (KUIC) - MNC ENGAGEMENT CELL

Background – MNC Engagement Cell

Government of Karnataka understands and appreciates the role of these MNCs and intends to further facilitate their development in the city.
It is understood that often, there is a need to provide co-ordination and handholding support, including grievance management when these
MNCs interact with various Government departments.
MNC Engagement Cell (‘MNC Cell’) was established by the Department of Electronics, Information Technology (IT), Biotechnology (B) and
Science and Technology (S&T), Government of Karnataka (GoK) in August 2020 to deepen engagement with tech focused MNCs in Karnataka.
The Cell directly interacts with companies to understand issues being faced and support required from the Government, including other state
departments.

Objectives of the Cell:

• Develop an engagement platform for overall innovation ecosystem enhancement and development
• Understand the needs of MNCs, and the support required from Government of Karnataka to grow and expand in the city
• Provide hand-holding support for resolution of issues with Government of Karnataka departments

Key activities for MNC Engagement Cell

Resolving issues/ challenges faced by tech focused MNCs in Karnataka
The MNC Engagement Cell has connected with 70+ companies through one on one engagements. The Cell assesses, monitors and resolves
issues faced by the companies, while tracking the status on an MIS tracker.
The Cell has reached out to the concerned Departments to flag issues raised and has supported several MNCs in liaising with various State
Departments including Commerce and Industries Department, BESCOM, Revenue Department, Bengaluru Police, BBMP, etc. for resolution
of issues.
The MNC Cell has also been supporting the Department in streamlining process for technology investments. The Cell has handheld a large
investment project in Karnataka and liaised with several GoK Departments including Commerce & Industries Department, KIADB, Skilling
Department to ensure the proposal is carefully handled and support from Government of Karnataka is extended.

86

n engagement with the industry, but also to enhance the overall ecosystem of the State.
Engagement/ collaboration

• MoU signed with VMWare regarding Project Taara – Women upskilling
1 Clearance / Approval related 2 Land and Infrastructure related 3 Fiscal related 4 Data requirements 4 Policy related

• Land • Availability of • Related to Karnataka
• Roads government data State Policies
• Public Transport
• Monitoring and fast • Data protection and

program, to be finalized end of August.trackingofapprovals
• Tax related
• Other payment privacy regulations

related

4 Investment Interest
VMWare Project Taara is a program designed to help women in India
4 Other Issues

return to a career in technolGoovgeTroynumc.henPtoToinfhtKsarwronitahutakga h this program, VMware’s goal is

to upscale 15,000 women in India, uplift by providing free technicalu Department of Electronics, IT, Bt and S&T
u Revenue Department u Skill Development Department

u KIADB / Commerce & Industries Department u Bangalore Electricity Supply u Department of Higher Education

eduuc UarbtanioDenvelopamnentdDepcartemernttification courses on digital businessCompany Limited (BESCOM) u Other GoK Departments transformation
u Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagar Palike (BBMP) u Bangalore Water Supply and
Sewerage Board (BWSSB)
technologies (Cloud Computing and Virtualization).

Strengthening Industry - Government relations

ect Taara •Many VMNMCs Whaveasrheownisintearesltetoacodllaibnograteinandd puarstnterrywitihnthethDeeparatmreentato soupfpocrtyabndeprrosmeoteciunnrovitaytionaannddtechhnaolovgyein
the State. Such collaborations are beneficial to the Government of Karnataka, not only to deepen engagement with the industry, but also to

shownenhance the overall eincotsyestreemsoftthteoStawte.ork back and support the state in cybersecurity.

MNCDiscussion Ecnogangedmuenct/tceoldlabworaittihon Cybersecurity CoE. VMWare have shown
MoU signed with VMWare regarding Project Taara – Women upskilling program, to be finalized end of August.
interest in sVuMpWapreoPrrotjeinct gTaarCa isyabpreogrrasmedcesuignreidtyto hseltpawromtuenpinsIndiina rettuhrnetoaa craereear isn teochfnofluogny. Tdhrionuggh and
this program, VMware’s goal is to upscale 15,000 women in India, uplift by providing free technical education
mentorship and incubation support.and certification courses on digital business transformation technologies (Cloud Computing and Virtualization).
VMware - Project Taara

VMWare is a leading industry in the area of cybersecurity and have shown interest to work back and support
the state in cybersecurity.

Discussion conducted with Cybersecurity CoE. VMWare have shown interest in supporting Cybersecurity
startups in the areas of funding and mentorship and incubation support.

87

MNC Engagement/ collaboration

VMware – Govt of VMware signed an MoU with Govt of Karnataka CoE for Cybersecurity (Cyseck) to support the state in the area
Karnataka CoE for of Cybersecurity. The main focus of the engagement is to accelerate the growth of Cybersecurity startups,
Cybersecurity with specific focus on helping these startups improve product delivery and scaling up.
collaboration
• The overall engagement entails incubation support including - knowledge sharing

• sessions, workshops and marquee mentorship provided by experts in VMware.

Amazon Web Services Govt of Karnataka is engaged with AWS to support the startup ecosystem of the state through AWS
(AWS) startup programs include AWS Activate, AWS connection, AWS marketplace and other AWS startup focused
programs.

Microsoft • Govt of Karnataka is engaged with Microsoft through their Microsoft for startups program.

• Microsoft for startups program is designed to help startups grow their business through access to
technology, channels, markets and customers. Startups receive dedicated support in addition to
free access to Microsoft cloud technologies, enterprise-grade technical support, and powerful
development tools.

• The Department has partnered with StrongHer Ventures, which is building the largest, most impactful and
engaging platform for women entrepreneurship, investments, engagement and empowerment.

StrongHer – Arise StrongHer is reserving 10% of seats for KITS registered startups.
Acceleration program
• The Arise accelerKaUtoICr–eMnNgCaEgnegsageemnetnirteCewll Soummmeanr-yled innovation ecosystem, including founders, investors, July 2022
Google experts, mentors, corporates and academia, with hands-on master classes, expert led deep-dives,

networking, client connects, community etc.

MNC Engagement/ collaboration

• Government of Karnataka is signing an MoU withoGooKgelye,pwroigtrhamthseabnedloawctivoibtiejescatisvepasr:t of the MoU include supporting

- Promote and accelerate the Karnataka startup ecosyssttaermtuptshtrhoruoguhghvGaroioogulse afocrtisvtiatrietuspasnpdroignriatimatsi,vpersomoting safe Digital

- Support and promote digital payments related initiatipvaeysmaecnrtossasntdhuenSdtearttaeking various digital skilling programs

- Promote fundamentals of digital citizenship through extending digital trainings’ and certifications’.

MNC Engagement/ collaboration

Key programs and activities as part of the
MoU include supporting startups through
Google for startups programs, promoting
safe Digital payments and undertaking
various digital skilling programs

2.3 MNC Database

88 From interactions with various ecosystem partners in Karnataka, the Cell has built a database of

approximately 250+ MNCs across the sectors of Information Technology, electronics/ESDM, biotechnology
and other industrial sectors including aerospace & defence, heavy machinery etc. Given below is a snapshot

UIC – MNC Engagement Cell Summary MNC Engagement Cell has conducted various CXO workshops with industry leaders from the IT, Electronics
and Biotech sectors, with the purpose toJuulyn2d0e2r2stand Companies’ experience in Karnataka and support
.4 CXO Sessions required from the Government of Karnataka in conducting business and operations in the State.

MNC Engagement Cell hKasUIcCon–dMucNteCd EvanrgioaugsemCeXnOt CweolrlkSshuompmsSawwriytihssindMuNsCtrySleeasdseiorsn:from the IT, Electronics July 2022

enqduBireiodtefrcohmsethcetoGrso, vweirthnmCthXeenOpt uoSrfpeKosassreniaototnauksnadienrsctoanndduCctoinmgpbaunsieinswMe’siNetshxCpapensaerdritesiocsnpiipcoeeanrtaiiwnotinaoKsnfarscornoimnantdttahhukeecatSCeatdonamdtwemsi.tuheprspcueoprp&t oIrntdfruosmtrieSswDisespCahrtammebnet.rs of Commerce (SICC) in September 2020,

MNC Engagement Cell has conducted various CXO workshops with industry leaders from the IT, Electronics and Biotech sectors, with the
purpose to understand Companies’ experieTnhcee iinndKuasrntraytapkaartaicnidpsaunptspoinrtcrleuqdueidre:dVforonmRtohlel,GAoBvBernInmdeian,t NofeKsatlren,aBtaukhalienr,coGnedbuectriint gPbluumsinbeinsgs Technology, Luwa
wiss MNC Session: and operations in the State.
India, R&M India and Meggitt India

MNC session was conducStwedisswMithNsCuSpepsosirotnfr: om Swiss ChamberKseoyf Ctoopmicms/eisrcseue(Ss ItChaCt)winerSeedpitsecmubsseer d2:0P2o0w, er outages, Internet connection interruptions, Road infrastructure
with participation from theMCNoCmsmesesricoen &waInsdcuosntdriuecsteDdewpaitrhtmsuepnpt.oisrtsufreosmaSnwdiscsonCchearmnsb,erCshoaflleConmgemsearcroeu(nSIdCCM) aindeSeinptIenmdibaecr e2r0ti2fi0c,atwioitnhsparticipation from the

he industry participants iCnocmlumdeedrc:eV&oInndRuosltl,rieAsBDBepInadrtiam,eNnet.stle, Buhler, Geberit Plumbing Technology, Luwa

ndia, R&M India and MegTghiettinIndduisatry participants included: Von Roll, ABB India, Nestle, Buhler, Geberit Plumbing Technology, Luwa India, R&M India and Meggitt India

ey topics/ issues that weKreeydtioscpuicsss/eisds:uPeoswtehratouwtaergeesd,isIcnutsesrnede:t Pcoonwneer cotiuotnagineste, rIrnutpetrinoents,coRnonaedctiinonfrainsttreurrcutuptrieons, Road infrastructure issues and concerns,
ssues and concerns, ChaClhleanllgeensgeasraoruonudndMMaaddeeininIInnddiiaa cceerrttiiffiiccaatitoionnss.

MNC Session with Biotech companies

MNC Session was conducted with support from AMCHAM in July 2021, with American biotech companies.

TMhNe CinSdeussstriyonpawrtiitchipIaTnatnsdinEclleucdterdo:nUicnCitoemd pHaenailethscare/ Optum, Wipro GE Healthcare, Medtronic, Stryker and

EMdNwC aSersdssionLwifaessccoinednuccteedswith supporMt fNroCmSAemsesriiocannwCihtahmITbearnodf CEolmecmtreorcneicinCInodmiap(AaMniCeHsAM) in December 2020, with American IT

and Electronic companies in Karnataka. diMscNuCsSseesds:ioBn iwoates ccohndcuocmtepd awnithiessupspeoertkfrinomg Asmuperpicoarnt CfrhoammbsetraorftCuopmemceorcseysinteInmdiato(AMCHAM) in

Key topics/ issues that were
The industry participants included: GoldmaDneScaecmhsb,eHro2n0e2y0w,ewll,itNheAtAmpepr,iMcaicnroITn TaencdhnEolleocgtyr,oFnidicelcitoym, SpcaienniteifsicinGaKmaernsa, Ctaokgan.izant, Accenture
saundpIpntouritt. business by coming up with innovative solutions, challenges in attracting and retaining the right kind

The industry participants included: Goldman Sachs, Honeywell, NetApp, Micron Technology, Fidelity,

MNC Session with IT anoKdfeEytalteolceptincrsot/,nisihcsiugCehos mtchpaotaswntseieresindispcouswseedr: R&eSgecuilneanteotrifygicSyGanaadnmbdoexser,esCaqonugdenKiszaartnnfatot,arAkcafucInerntnhotuvearretiosannuAdbuIstnhitdouriitiet.ys, ,suigsgseusteiosn oanrolaubonudr cdodreusgpeccoifinc trooITll/er
MNC Session was condurcIheTtoeegmsduIenwl-daiutethsmiotsrpnuyl,opsiympefopeorostrrwftruaoonsmrckaeinAgfgomefrreGoormoifcKahdtnoormuCsetghretasonmKgcinbhteheayeRrrgntooe&tfphcDCioecsos,ttem/silnieimsnctscoeeuumrrercerseeinsdtfihntrfaartIostonmtwdruwiewacrtooe(urArrkdekMiinsingCwcufcHriistotAihsmeMesGdh)b:oeionmRyKoeengadausBlndaeedtnodgruayaclctSuibarauledn, dsfeoubmrgotgxaieeaxssptoiuoarnnnpdoossnKketa,iatlrxlrnianlaafftgwiac/kfinaoufrrpIwanssnotkorrkuvilcafltirtnouiomrgen Authority,

December 2020, with AmcceaorninccadenrindIsTa, stauengsdg.eEslteiocntroniacmceonmdpmaennitetsoiSnEsKZuapgrognleaicstyati-koaenn. oanblelawboorukrfcroomdehosmpeecaifnicd tfoixIaTn/IiTncerseaInsedu%sotfrye,mimplpooyerteasntcheatfomraGy obKe atloloswtreedntgotwheonrkthe telecom

he industry participants ifnrocmludheodm:eG. oldman Sachs, Honeywell,inNferatAstprpu,ctMuriceroinncTiteiecshnboelyoognyd, FBiedneglitayl,uru, suggestion on tax law for work from home - employees working from

cientific Games, Cognizant, Accenture and Intuit. home to charge costs incurred from working from home as deductible for tax purpose, traffic infrastructure

ey topics/ issues that were discussed: Regulatory Sandboxes caonndcKearnrns,astaukgageInsntioovnaotinonamAuetnhdomriteyn, t to SEZ policy - enable work from home and fix an increase % of
uggestion on labour code specific to IT/ITes Industry, importanecme pfolor yGeoeKs tthoasttrmeanygtbheenaltlhoewetedletcoowmork from home.

nfrastructure in cities beyond Bengaluru, suggestion on tax law for work from home - employees working from

ome to charge costs incurred from working from home as deductible for tax purpose, traffic infrastructure

oncerns, suggestion on amendment to SEZ policy - enable work from home and fix an increase % of

mployees that may be allowed to work from home.

Page 5 of 6

MNC Session with IT and Electronic Companies 89

MNC Engagement Cell conducted an MNC Interaction Session on 21st January 2022, with AMCHAM

Page 5 of 6

MNC Session with IT and Electronic Companies

MNC Engagement Cell conducted an MNC Interaction Session on 21st January 2022, with AMCHAM Member Companies in the
sectors of Electronics and Information Technology to understand Companies’ experiences in Karnataka and support required from
Government of Karnataka.
Key points discussed: Infrastructure, Traffic, Furthering investments in Karnataka, Query on landsale deed, interest in support startup
programs, appreciation for GoK during covid-19 regarding restriction of travel and movement Industry Participants in the Session: 3M, AO
Smith, Collins Aerospace, IBM, Morgan Stanley, Mastercard, Palo Alto Networks, Wissen Infotech

90

91

Events

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

(2019 -20, 2020-21 & 2021-22)

92

2019

GAFX -2019 EVENT

Govt. of Karnataka through the Karnataka Innovation Technology
Society (KITS) in association with Association of Bangalore Animation
Industry (ABAI) organized AVGC Flagship Event titled GAFX-
2019 from 21st -23rd June 2019 at Hotel Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru.
Thousands of enthusiasts, including students, attended the inaugural
event, workshops and master classes. Experts and movie makers
leveraging advanced techniques such as VFX. There were sessions
on the making of KGF on 2nd Day by Udayaravi Hegde, Managing
Director, Unifimedia; making of many movies such as Sir Ridley
Scott Seven, Kung Fu Dhamaka, Kalank, Jagga Jasoos and Krish Trish
Balti Boy were screened. Experts such as Chris Harlowe, Catherine
Branscome, Cristian Jezdic, Daniel Seddon, Angela Salt, Avneet Kaur,
Owen Hurley and Prasad Sutar spoke on topics such as story, physics of animation, cinematography, production design, high – end character
creation, 3D character animation, game engine etc. The event also had live competitions such as 3D Character Animation, Clay Sculpting,
Digital Animation, 3D Modelling, 3D Game Art, Story Writing, Traditional Painting, Digital Painting and Storyboarding.

CII 15th India Innovation Summit 2019

The 15th India Innovation Summit 2019 was successfully conducted
on 21st & 22nd August 2019 at Hotel Taj West End, Bengaluru and
witnessed huge crowd over two days from across the country. The
Sessions at the Summit included: India on Vocation - All hands at
work; Our Earth – Now or Never; Our Connected Life – Living in a 5G
World; Words are Us – A language to remember; A time to refuel –
new engines of mobility; Stay well Stay fit – India on a run; Teens at
work – A day of many lives (fire side chat) and Innovation from Basic
Sciences - fire side chat.

Global Technology Summit (GTS) 2019

Carnegie India, supported by the Ministry of External Affairs and in partnership with Government of Karnataka, hosted its fourth annual
Global Technology Summit 2019 on 4th-6th December 2019 at Leela Palace, Bengaluru. The theme for the summit was based on Future
of data and the sessions held included: Identity, payments and Data empowerment, Data flows and Data access, Future of data, Video
message on Artificial Intelligence and its implications, Shaping the digital future, Governing AI: The challenges of autonomous decision,
Evolution of Fintech in India, Fintech: Balancing Innovation and regulation, Health Security: Combating Pandemics, Drones: Assessing
Opportunities and Challenges, 5g Data Security, Data explosion in Auto Industry and Data protection in Digital Age. The summit witnessed
a crowd of 600+ participants and witnessed contribution from 46 distinguished speakers from the Government, Industry, Scientific
Community and Academia.

93

2019

Indian Technology Congress 2019

The Indian Technology Congress 2019 organized by Indian Technology
Congress Association was held on 4th& 5th September 2019 at
NIMHANS Convention Centre, Bengaluru. The Indian Technology
Congress is an annual flagship event of Indian Technology Congress
Association (ITCA) for Indian industry, Academia and technical experts
to showcase their work in emerging and advanced technologies in
Manufacturing, Agriculture, Space, Industry 4.0, Artificial Intelligence,
Cobots, Digital Factory and Digital Twin. The Indian Technology
Congress 2019 was successfully conducted and witnessed huge
crowd over two days and brought together many successful
entrepreneurs, top professionals, practitioners, innovators and
academicians from across the world to focus and discuss on this year
theme “Human Digitization: Future Intelligence”. The theme focused on deep dives into technological and operational issues and discusses
strategy-focused topics to help attendees understand the depth and breadth of contemporary digital technologies.

2020 Indian Science Congress 2020

India’s largest annual gathering of scientific luminaries from countries
across the world, the 107th session of Indian Science Congress, was
held from January 3 to 7, 2020 at University of Agricultural Sciences,
GKVK Campus, Bengaluru. The Science Congress was inaugurated by
Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. The Congress
is a major focal point for scientists, researchers and academicians
interested in various aspects of science discoveries and technologies.
The five-day long event brought together science fraternity across
the world to discuss scientific innovation and research.

WoW Enterprise Connect 2020

The WoW Enterprise Connect 2020 organized by UBUNTU on the
eve of International Women’s Day was held on 6thMarch 2020 at
The Taj West End Hotel, Bengaluru. The event was aimed to nurture
women entrepreneurs and provide them with necessary connects
across Corporates, Global Organizations, Trade Associations and
Government with an aim to accelerate women empowerment and
entrepreneurship. The event facilitated B2B and B2G partnering in
select sectors to explore business partnerships, vendor listing and
procurement. build skills with government organizations and dynamic
industries, corporates, online marts and retail chains.

94

2020

Pan IIT- Tech4 Bharat 2020

The Pan IIT Tech4Bharat 2020 was held on 28th & 29th February
2020 at Hotel Shangri La, Bengaluru on Day 1 and at Indian Institute
of Science (IISc) Bengaluru Campus on Day 2. The Tech4Bharat 2020
had three themes: i) focused on education as a part of which the
IIT Directors Forum was created where the actions that need to be
taken to enhance the stature of India’s Technical Education in global
cognition were discussed; ii) Pan IIT AI Forum’s plan to move ahead
as a part of its continuance stream, to address the skilling needs of
the industry in view of the new, disruptive technologies that have
been introduced and being introduced in an ongoing basis and iii)
The Solve4Bharat Hackathon showcasing the technical capabilities
and skills that can solve the larger problems of the society and the
country by the use of technology.

IESA Vision Summit 2020

The IESA Vision Summit 2020 was held on 19th & 21stAugust 2020 on virtual platform. The Summit focused on the Intelligent Electronics
and Semiconductor Sector. The Vision Summit aimed at driving ecosystem synergies to transform 1.3bn lives with a focus on enabling a
self-reliant digital economy for India.
The theme of Vision Summit 2020 #VisionSummit2020 is ‘Intelligent Electronics: Driving self-reliant digital economy: Transforming 1.3
billion lives’. The Summit aimed at fostering and accelerating Electronics & Semiconductor manufacturing, 1K start-ups, 10K IPs and 1000K
jobs stepping into the new decade besides the focus on importance of Electronics & Semiconductors in the strategic areas which have an
national economic impact with citizen empowerment.

95

2020

TechBharat Conclave 2020

The Tech Bharat Startup Conclave, 2020 scheduled was organized by
Laghu Udhyog Bharati on 17th & 18th January 2020 at Taj Vivanta,
Bengaluru. The Conclave has brought together many successful
entrepreneurs, top professionals, practitioners and innovators from
across the country. The Conclave witnessed participation from 41
Startup Exhibitors,38 Investor delegates,209 Startup delegates,
242 Corporate delegates,148 Academic delegates, 637 delegates
and 443 visitors.

CII Summit FX 2020

The CII Summit FX 2020, was held on 1st to 4th
September 2020 on virtual platform. The CII Summit
FX 2020 was successfully conducted on virtual
platform many national and international delegates had
participated in the Summit. The CII Summit FX 2020 saw
experts from the UK, USA, Australia, France, Singapore and key states like Telangana, Karnataka and Punjab together in the first of its kind,
digital thought leadership platform to discuss the AVGC segment, and the transformation of India into a global leader. The platform seeked to
curate and create an environment conducive to help build a better future and achieve the targets of the segment. CII is committed to making
M&E in India a robust industry, with the AVGC segment leading the way.

2021 Tech Bharat Conclave 2021

The Tech Bharat Conclave 2021 was held virtually on 5th and 6th March 2021, with the theme “Empowering Education and Healthcare in
India”. It was the 2nd edition of Tech Bharat- an international conclave of all stake holders of Edutech and Healthcare sector organized by
IMS Foundation, Laghu Udoyog Bharati- Karnataka, a leading industrial association in service of Micro & Small Industries in India. The event
was conducted in two phases: First Pre-event: 18th December 2020, Second Pre-event: 22nd January 2021 followed by the main event.

9X6

2021

Global Knowledge Summit 2021

Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Global Knowledge Summit 2021 held on 8th & 9th April 2021 was organized by CII virtually. The
Summit with the theme “Transforming Knowledge Management for Hybrid Learning and Hybrid Workplaces” had participation of many
national and international delegates. The two-day Summit focused around knowledge creation, management & transfer which primarily
forms the basis for human civilization, in the context of hybrid world after 2020. The Summit laid out a platform for discussing new role
of knowledge and monitor its outcomes, potentials of remote learning, adoption of digital format and transformation. There were various
sessions conducted on hybrid environment, corporate learning, remote learning, skilling for the digital work environment, quality and
value-add in education and so on.

97

2021

NASSCOM Design & Engineering Summit 2021

The 13th edition of NASSCOM Design & Engineering Summit 2021 was held on 6th & 7th Oct 2021, inaugurated by Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar,
Minister of State, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; and MeitY. ADVANTAGE INDIA: Gateway to Global Engineering R&D
and Innovation’ report was launched during the summit by Professor K. Vijay Raghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser, Government of India.
The Summit witnessed participation of 28+ Countries, 700+ Unique Organisations, 3300+Attendees, 50+ Speakers, 20+ Sessions, 28
Exclusive Partners, 2 Boardroom sessions and a Report Launch, making a great social media impression and reach across the social media
platforms.

Global Technology Summit (GTS) 2021

The 6th edition of Global Technology Summit 2021 was organized by Carnegie India in association with Ministry of External Affairs,
Government of India and Government of Karnataka as the State Partner. With the theme “Global Meets Local”, the Summit was held on 14th
to 16th December 2021 in hybrid mode with a virtual special address by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on the inaugural day. The event
witnessed great presence of national and international delegates, notable industry leaders, domain experts and brought them together
in a platform to discuss on policy aspects of trending technology topics and on the emerging technology including the cryptocurrencies,
encryption, vaccine supply chains, cloud computing, green technology, digital payments, cyber security, and science & tech cooperation
in the Quad etc. The Summit had 50+ sessions, 100+ speakers, 2,500+ and 20,000+ people from over 90 countries accessing the bespoke
website for the GTS 2021.

NASSCOM Global Capabilities Center Conclave 2021

The NASSCOM Global Capabilities Center Conclave 2021 is an
exclusive thought leadership virtual program for Global Capabilities
Centers (GCC) organized by NASSCOM. The event was held on 14th &
15th Sep 2021 on a virtual platform. The Theme of this Conclave was
“The Hybrid Reality: New Frontiers for GCC Success” that focused
on possibilities of the New Normal and opportunities for GCCs to
thrive in this challenging time. During the event, GCC India Landscape
Report 2021 was unveiled. The Impact of the events was reported as
4500+ Registrations, 2200+ Attendees, 48 Speakers, 20 Sessions,
29 Exclusive Partners, 25 GCC Excellence Award Winners, 2
Report Launch, 750+ Unique Organizations, 2200+Attendance and
48 Speakers.

98

Bengaluru Tech Summit

ASIA’S LARGEST TECHNOLOGY SUMMIT

Organized by the Dept. of Electronics, IT, Bt and Science and Technology, Govt. of Karnataka

BTS2019 Highlights

21 262Countries Eminent Speakers

3173 243Delegates Exhibitors

97 11435Startups Visitors