Karnataka Unveils ₹1,000 Crore LEAP Scheme to Boost Innovation in State

The Karnataka government’s Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology (IT-BT) has launched the Local Economy Accelerator Programme (LEAP). As per the news reports, the five-year programme has an outlay of ₹1,000 crore and is for boosting innovation across the state.

LEAP is expected to help create 5 lakh jobs during its implementation period. It will support entrepreneurs at different stages, from early exposure in schools and colleges to mature startups seeking access to larger markets.

Focus Beyond Bengaluru

Bengaluru continues to be a major technology hub, ranked 10th in the StartupBlink 2025 index and 14th in the Startup Genome 2025 report. However, the government said the new programme will focus on extending opportunities to other parts of Karnataka.

Regional Clusters

The areas identified for development under LEAP include Mysuru-Chamarajanagar, Mangaluru-Udupi, Hubbali-Belagavi-Dharwad, Tumakuru, Kalaburagi, and Shivamogga. These regions are expected to receive ecosystem support through infrastructure, mentorship, and funding.

Implementation Steps

Proposals have been invited to set up Innovation Labs. Other planned activities include hackathons, bootcamps, and regional innovation events. The programme will also include Centres of Excellence, incubators, accelerators, and prototype labs.

Funding and Support

A Fund of Funds will be created to strengthen venture capital access in emerging clusters. Grants will be targeted at deep-tech startups. Additional measures such as digital clinics, compliance support, and plug-and-play labs will be rolled out to assist early-stage companies.

Read more: Karnataka Secures Over ₹12 Lakh Crore in Investments Due to Strong Economy: Report!

Conclusion

LEAP is structured as a ₹1,000 crore programme over five years to spread innovation beyond Bengaluru. Its progress will be measured through job creation, new infrastructure, and the growth of regional clusters as competitive startup hubs.

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