Karnataka announces ₹1,000-crore Startup push to transform Kalaburagi into entrepreneurship hub

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge highlighted the government's ambitious plans while participating in the Kalyana Karnataka Startup Dialogue 2026, organised by the state's Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology in collaboration with the KrishiKalpa Foundation in Kalaburagi.

The event brought together more than 300 young entrepreneurs, investors, mentors and industry leaders to explore opportunities for strengthening the region's emerging startup ecosystem.

A significant highlight of the programme was the inauguration of KrishiKalpa's new incubation centre and Centre of Excellence, dedicated to supporting agriculture-allied enterprises and rural-focused startups.

The facilities are expected to encourage innovation in agriculture and allied sectors, providing aspiring entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, technical support and opportunities to develop commercially viable solutions.

Kharge said the ₹1,000-crore LEAP initiative would focus on building strong entrepreneurial ecosystems outside Bengaluru through the establishment of LEAP Labs, IT parks, incubation facilities and improved access to capital.

The programme also seeks to facilitate industry partnerships, mentorship networks and market connections, enabling startups in emerging regions to compete more effectively.

Emphasising the importance of decentralising economic development, Kharge said Karnataka's growth ambitions must extend beyond its capital city to unlock the entrepreneurial potential of regions such as Kalyana Karnataka.

The government's strategy aims to encourage local innovation, attract investment, create quality employment and strengthen Kalaburagi's contribution to Karnataka's Gross State Domestic Product.

The initiative assumes significance for Kalyana Karnataka, a region where expanding access to technology infrastructure, startup funding and institutional support could help generate new economic opportunities.

By combining rural entrepreneurship with technology-driven innovation, the government hopes to create a more geographically balanced startup ecosystem while supporting the aspirations of young entrepreneurs across northern Karnataka.

Kharge reiterated that the ultimate objective was to position Kalaburagi as an emerging centre of innovation and enterprise, contributing meaningfully to Karnataka's long-term economic growth.