Visionary Goals
Rohit Bhat, the founding president of TiE Mangaluru and founder of 99Games, is spearheading the ambitious vision to elevate Mangaluru into India’s Silicon Beach. The objectives include increasing job opportunities from 20,000 to 2 lakh, boosting the regional GDP from $20 billion to $100 billion, and nurturing 3,000 startups with the aim of producing at least five unicorns. Bhat sees this transformation as a tangible possibility, with increasing interest from IT firms in investing in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
Initiating Dialogue for Transformation
TiE Mangaluru, in collaboration with the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), initiated the Silicon Beach Dialogue series. This platform brought together experts from diverse industries to deliberate on strategies for transforming Mangaluru and Udupi into Karnataka’s next IT hub. The discussions were geared towards creating opportunities and envisioning the region’s future by 2033.
Key Components
The series commenced with a keynote speech by a prominent industry figure, followed by panel discussions featuring leading industry representatives. These deliberations primarily focused on strategies to elevate Mangaluru’s status as a global technology hub.
Economic Impact and Sustainability
Bhat highlighted the significant economic impact of IT industries on the coastal district, underscoring the need for support. He aims for these industries to contribute at least 10% to Karnataka’s GDP within a decade. TiE Mangaluru’s approach emphasizes three pillars: future, nature, and culture. While expanding the IT ecosystem, they also prioritize environmental sustainability and the preservation of local heritage.
Livability and Innovation
Mangaluru’s livability was praised by Mikkel Bardram, CEO of EG A/S, a Denmark-based software firm with a significant presence in the city. Dakshina Kannada’s deputy commissioner announced plans to engage students in solving real-world problems, providing them with practical learning experiences.
This concerted effort signals a promising trajectory towards realizing the vision of transforming Mangaluru into India’s Silicon Beach, blending economic growth with sustainability and innovation.