Karnataka Building a Thriving Startup Ecosystem for All

By: Rachita Sharma, Managing Editor | Tuesday, 17 February 2026

India is the world’s third largest startup ecosystem and Karnataka often emerges as India’s startup capital. Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka is known for being one of the most conducive cities for startups. The same goes for women-led startups as well.

Bengaluru is a hub for women-led startups and houses 1500+ women-led ventures. From deeptech to skincare, HR tech to supply chain, women-led ventures have grown exponentially in the past few years.

A major push for women-led businesses has been the various policies and initiatives launched by the Karnataka state government. Very recently, Karnataka got its very first women-led industrial Park at Gowribidanur in Karnataka.

Inaugurated by FICCI FLO (FICCI Ladies Organisation) Bangalore, the industrial park is spread across 50-acre and will house businesses exclusively for FLO Bengaluru members. It aims to lower long-standing entry barriers that have historically kept women out of manufacturing and large-scale enterprise.

Speaking at the inauguration, Revathi Raju, Head, Industrial Park and Past Chairperson, FLO Bangalore, said that "Industrial Park represents a shift not just in infrastructure but in mindset. For many women, owning an industry once felt like an impossible dream. What this park does is change that inner conversation. It tells women homemakers, professionals, and first-time entrepreneurs that this space is meant for them, too. We are already seeing women step forward who would never have imagined themselves here otherwise, and that is the most optimistic outcome of this journey".

Such initiatives play a crucial role in empowering women to build their own enterprise. Here’s hoping that more states borrow a leaf from Karnataka’s playbook and strengthen their respective startup ecosystems and in turn boost women-led enterprises across India.

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