Karnataka Launches Rs 1,000 Crore "LEAP" to Boost Innovation.

In September 2025, the Government of Karnataka launched the "LEAP (Leadership in Emerging and Accelerating Progress)" programme with an outlay of Rs 1,000 crore to strengthen the state’s startup and innovation ecosystem, making it one of the largest such state-led initiatives in India.

      - The LEAP programme will focus on supporting deep-tech startups, research-driven innovation, and entrepreneurial ventures, aiming to position Karnataka as a global leader in technology-led growth.

      - The initiative is being spearheaded by the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology (ITBT), Government of Karnataka, with direct monitoring from the Chief Minister and ITBT Minister.

Main Point :-   (i) The Rs 1,000 crore fund will be used to provide seed funding, venture support, incubation facilities, and grants to emerging startups working in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, clean energy, semiconductors, and space technology.

      (ii) LEAP also intends to foster collaboration between academia, research institutions, and industry, ensuring that startups receive mentorship, infrastructure, and policy support to scale globally from Karnataka.

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