Bengaluru: The Karnataka Department of Electronics, IT, and BT on Monday announced a ₹1,000 crore initiative titled LEAP (Local Economy Accelerator Programme), aimed at creating 5 lakh jobs and building robust startup ecosystems across the state, beyond the capital city.
₹1,000 crore for statewide innovation
With an outlay of ₹1,000 crore over five years, LEAP is designed to foster innovation, democratise opportunities, and drive equitable economic growth. The initiative will support the entire startup lifecycle—from encouraging entrepreneurial curiosity in schools to helping mature startups access global markets.
While Bengaluru continues to shine globally—ranking 10th in the StartupBlink 2025 Index and 14th in the Startup Genome 2025 Report—the government emphasised that LEAP is about balanced statewide development.
Focus on regional tech clusters
LEAP will focus on nurturing tech and innovation clusters in:
- Mysuru–Chamarajanagar
- Mangaluru–Udupi
- Hubballi–Belagavi–Dharwad
- Tumkur
- Kalaburagi
- Shivamogga
By addressing gaps in infrastructure, funding, mentorship, and ecosystem development, the programme aims to transform these regions into self-sustaining, globally competitive hubs.
Minister’s vision
IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge said the programme represents the government’s vision of inclusive innovation:
“LEAP is our commitment to ensuring that the fruits of innovation are shared across Karnataka. While Bengaluru is a global powerhouse, the state’s true potential will be unlocked when we empower entrepreneurs in Mysuru, Hubbali, and Kalaburagi.”
He added that the investment is not just about startups, but about building a balanced, equitable, and resilient economic future for Karnataka.
Broader implications
The launch underscores the state’s ambition to position itself as a diversified global technology leader, not just concentrated in Bengaluru but distributed across its emerging regions.