Karnataka Scales ELEVATE to Back More Early-Stage Startups

Karnataka’s Department of Electronics, IT, and Biotechnology opened the 25th edition of ELEVATE, its flagship grant program for startups, on May 25, 2026. The initiative provides up to ₹50 lakh in grants to early-stage ventures developing prototypes or proof-of-concept solutions. For the first time, all four ELEVATE tracks—General, Shakti (women-led), Unnati (SC/ST founders), and Aspire (Tier 2/3 regions)—are running simultaneously. This shift reflects Karnataka’s goal of expanding access beyond Bengaluru’s traditional startup hub. Selected startups will receive grants alongside mentorship, incubation support, and connections to incentives under the Karnataka Startup Policy 2022–27, including patent reimbursements and marketing aid. The program’s inclusive approach aligns with its decade-long impact: over 1,250 startups supported, ₹292.57 crore in grants disbursed, and 330 women-led ventures receiving ₹77.39 crore. Data shows 464 startups from outside Bengaluru secured ₹102.89 crore, highlighting efforts to diversify participation. Karnataka’s strategy prioritizes early-stage founders from smaller cities and non-traditional groups, aiming to strengthen the startup pipeline beyond venture capital and unicorns. Deputy Chief Minister Priyank Kharge emphasized the program’s role in transforming ideas into scalable solutions, reinforcing Karnataka’s position as India’s startup capital. This expansion reflects a broader trend in India, where public startup funding is becoming more targeted and ecosystem-driven. Karnataka’s simultaneous rollout of all tracks underscores its commitment to inclusive, statewide innovation support.