Karnataka and Italy are exploring closer cooperation across startups, artificial intelligence, deeptech, space technology and research, with discussions focused on developing targeted programmes that can help companies and institutions from both sides access new markets and innovation ecosystems. The discussions were held between Karnataka’s IT/BT department and Italy’s Ambassador to India, Antonio Bartoli, on September 7, according to the Karnataka government.
The discussions centred on moving beyond broad cooperation towards sector-specific initiatives involving startups, research institutions and industry. Karnataka proposed developing focused startup acceleration programmes and mechanisms that could help companies from the two markets establish connections with each other’s markets, infrastructure, industry networks and research institutions.
One of the areas under consideration is the creation of “soft-landing” opportunities for startups. Such programmes would help companies from Karnataka and Italy gain access to the other market and connect with relevant ecosystem participants. The discussions also covered stronger links between innovation hubs, with Mangaluru specifically highlighted as one of the locations that could participate in such cooperation.
The two sides also discussed three to four sector-specific startup acceleration programmes. The proposed approach is to begin with a limited number of startups, institutions and sectors, assess the outcomes and then expand programmes that demonstrate results.
Space and deeptech emerged as another area of potential cooperation. Discussions covered possible collaboration in space technology, Earth observation, disaster management and environmental monitoring. These areas could provide opportunities for startups and research institutions in Karnataka and Italy to work on applications involving advanced technologies and space-based capabilities.
Artificial intelligence was also part of the discussions. Karnataka and Italy explored potential cooperation in AI, including links with Karnataka’s upcoming public-private AI university. The talks also considered broader collaboration between innovation and research ecosystems in the two regions.
The proposed cooperation extends beyond startups and emerging technologies. The discussions included industry-academia partnerships, knowledge exchange and institutional collaboration in areas such as science and technology, energy, urban technology and design. This indicates an effort to connect companies with research and academic institutions alongside the proposed startup programmes.
Urban mobility was another area discussed by the two sides. Potential areas of cooperation included integrated public transport, intermodal connectivity, AI-based passenger information systems and predictive maintenance. Karnataka also highlighted its efforts to integrate public transport in Bengaluru and its Global Innovation Growth Alliance soft-landing platform.
The engagement is also expected to receive a further push through the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2026. Italy is set to send a delegation of companies and institutions to the event, with the objective of advancing partnerships in startups, research, technology and industry.
The discussions come as Karnataka continues to pursue international partnerships aimed at expanding its technology and innovation ecosystem beyond domestic markets. For Italy, the proposed collaboration offers avenues to connect its companies and institutions with Karnataka’s startup, technology and research ecosystem.
At this stage, the initiatives discussed between Karnataka and Italy represent areas of proposed cooperation rather than finalized agreements or confirmed investments. The next phase will involve identifying specific programmes, participating companies and institutions, and developing mechanisms through which the proposed partnerships can be implemented.
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