India's Karnataka Launches $18M Fund for Deeptech Startups

India's Karnataka state is betting big on the future, launching a $18 million program to support startups working on breakthrough technologies that could reshape entire industries.

Elevate NxT opened for applications this week, offering deeptech startups across India grants of up to $12,000 each, along with mentorship and ecosystem support. Applications remain open until February 17, 2026, giving innovators plenty of time to apply.

The program targets startups working on transformative technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, green energy, and spacetech. Other focus areas include blockchain, robotics, 3D printing, drones, advanced materials, and cybersecurity.

"Elevate NxT is a key milestone in Karnataka's DeepTech Decade, aimed at translating frontier research into globally competitive technologies," says N Manjula, Secretary of the state's IT and Biotechnology department. Since 2017, the broader Elevate program has already empowered hundreds of startups, creating jobs and driving economic growth across the region.

The initiative arrives alongside Karnataka's ambitious new startup policy for 2025 to 2030. The state plans to establish 25,000 new startups over five years, with at least 10,000 emerging from areas outside the tech hub of Bengaluru.

Karnataka has earmarked $67 billion for this broader policy, focusing on funding access, incubation spaces, market expansion, and cutting red tape. The strategy emphasizes spreading innovation beyond Bengaluru to create opportunity across the entire state.

The Ripple Effect

This investment signals something bigger than just startup funding. Karnataka is building infrastructure for the technologies that will define the next decade, from AI solving healthcare challenges to green energy combating climate change.

By welcoming startups from across India, not just Karnataka, the program creates a collaborative ecosystem where the best ideas can flourish. The milestone-based funding approach ensures startups get support as they grow, not just a one-time check.

The focus on decentralization also means small cities and towns will become innovation hubs, spreading economic opportunity and keeping talent from concentrating in already-crowded metros.

India's deeptech sector is about to get a serious boost, and the innovations born from this program could reach far beyond Karnataka's borders.