Karnataka earmarks Rs 2 cr for tech start-ups

Karnataka Startup Cell funds Rs 2 crore in eight startups AAO Hostel, Highway Delite, Highir Technologies, Digitour Technologies, Aseuro Technology. Trip Diary, Moving up Products and Trip on Food. The startups have come up with innovative technology based solution for the tourism industry in Karnataka.

The funding has been made in association with the department of tourism under the Idea2POC Scheme of the Karnataka Startup Policy. The department aims that 100 startups received funding each year under the scheme.

The startups were selected after the department invited proposals from early stage startups for innovative solutions and products in the space of tourism.

The startups were screened for several parameters such as whether the startup showcases any tech based product/solution with direct relevance and impact on tourism. If the startups had a functioning website, if the startup a solution with a projection in terms of business plan.

The startups after the initial pitching went for two rounds of pitching after which the final eight were selected.

Priyank Kharge, IT & BT, Tourism, Government of Karnataka, said, "This is a first of its kind initiative in the country and a It is a great opportunity for startups in tourism sector to showcase their technology solutions and pitch to the government and a panel of industry experts directly on the occasion of World Tourism Day. I hope we can adopt a few ideas to boost tourism or tourist experiences in the State and Bengaluru," said Priyank Kharge, IT & BT and Tourism Minister, Government of Karnataka.

The department would work with the selected startups to fine tune and roll out the applications.

1. AAO Hostels -Rs.40 lakhs

2. Highway Delite - Rs.35 lakhs

3. Highir Technologies - Rs.25 lakhs

4. DigiTour Technologies - Rs. 25 lakhs

5. Aseuro Technologies - Rs. 25 lakhs

6. Trip Dairy - Rs. 20 lakhs

7. Moving Up Products - Rs. 5 lakhs

8. Trip On Food- Rs. 5 lakhs