The Karnataka government recently hosted a high-profile international outreach initiative titled “Bridge to Bengaluru” in New Delhi, aimed at strengthening the state’s global partnerships in innovation, technology, and investment.
The event brought together representatives from nearly 69 countries, along with policymakers, diplomats, and industry leaders, making it one of the key pre-events ahead of the upcoming Bengaluru Tech Summit 2026. Officials described the platform as a strategic effort to position Bengaluru as a global hub for startups, deep-tech, research, and digital innovation.
Organised by the Karnataka government, the dialogue focused on expanding international collaboration under the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) framework. The initiative aims to connect Karnataka with global innovation ecosystems, enabling cooperation in areas such as emerging technologies, skill development, research partnerships, and startup investments.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah highlighted that the state’s vision is to build strong global linkages that connect ideas, economies, and people, while also strengthening Karnataka’s ambition of transforming into a $1 trillion economy by 2032, driven by talent, technology, and innovation-led growth.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge also emphasised Bengaluru’s growing importance as a global innovation destination. They noted that initiatives like Bridge to Bengaluru are designed to create continuous engagement with international partners beyond one-time events, enabling long-term collaboration and investment flow.
The event also served as a curtain-raiser for the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2026, which is expected to further showcase Karnataka’s capabilities in artificial intelligence, deep-tech, and next-generation technologies.
Through this outreach, Karnataka is aiming to strengthen its position as India’s leading technology ecosystem while expanding its global footprint as a gateway for innovation, startups, and foreign investment.
