Overview

• State officials unveiled LEAP as a statewide innovation push aimed at building self-sustaining tech clusters in Mysuru–Chamarajanagar, Mangaluru–Udupi, Hubballi–Belagavi–Dharwad, Tumakuru, Kalaburagi and Shivamogga.
• LEAP spans the full startup lifecycle with initiatives such as the Karnataka Startup Foundry for schools, ELEVATE NXT grants for deep-tech ventures and new Centres of Excellence.
• The programme centralizes applications, resources and stakeholder engagement through a single digital portal to streamline access and governance.
• Rollout has begun with a first Call for Proposals for Innovation Labs issued on September 18, with further announcements on hackathons and Centres of Excellence expected soon.
• Funding totals ₹1,000 crore over five years and includes instruments like a Fund of Funds and a Critical Research Fund to help startups reach market readiness.