Karnataka to simplify procedures for startups participating in govt tenders

Technovanza was organised by the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM)'s Mangaluru cluster on February 6

Karnataka government is streamlining procedures for startups participating in government tenders, the state's IT-BT Secretary Ekroop Caur said on February 6.

Speaking at the third edition of 'Technovanza' organised by the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) Mangaluru cluster, Caur said: "The goal is to encourage the procurement of innovative products and services and foster partnerships with startups."

Karnataka IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge had announced that the government will unveil a preferential public procurement policy aimed at bolstering support for startups.

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As part of Beyond Bengaluru initiative, Karnataka will set up an IT Park with plug-and-play facilities at Beverly Hills, Derebail in Mangaluru. The coastal city of Karnataka is expected to emerge as India's 'Silicon Beach', according to KDEM.

Caur highlighted Mangaluru's reputation as a banking hub and a leader in producing a high-quality talent pool in the technology and innovation sectors, with more than 10,000 engineering and 30,000 STEM graduates, making it an educational hub.

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Sharath Bachegowda, chairman of Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Ltd (KEONICS), revealed plans to establish an IT Park and a plug-and-play facility spread across 4 acres in Derebail. "These initiatives aim to facilitate development in emerging clusters, ensuring that Mangaluru and similar regions can fully harness their potential as centers of technological innovation and economic growth."

BV Naidu, chairman of KDEM, emphasised the focus on Mangaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, and Dharwad, stating, "Technovanza has a crucial role in nurturing local talent and fostering industry-driven initiatives. It is important to build both soft and hard infrastructure." With more than 47 companies already investing in emerging tech clusters and several more in the pipeline, Naidu expressed confidence in Mangaluru's potential to emerge as India's 'Silicon Beach'.

Sanjeev Gupta, CEO of KDEM said: "There are more than 30 companies in the pipeline, including four GCCs poised to establish their operations in Mangaluru, indicating a significant influx of business and technological expertise to the city."