Startup incubators in Bangalore
Bangalore's startup ecosystem is one of the most dynamic in India, with the city hosting a significant number of incubators and accelerators. These organizations provide critical support to startups through infrastructure, mentorship, seed funding, and access to markets and investors. The growth of incubators in Bangalore has been propelled by government initiatives like Startup India, Atal Innovation Mission, and the Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE) 2.0 program by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.[1] Many incubators are affiliated with premier institutions such as the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) and the International Institute of Information Technology, Bangalore (IIIT-B).
Key Incubators and Accelerators
Several notable incubators and accelerators operate in Bangalore, each with a unique focus and contribution to the startup ecosystem.
NSRCEL (N S Raghavan Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning)
Located at Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, NSRCEL is one of India's most prestigious incubators. It supports startups across various stages with mentorship, funding, and access to a network of industry experts. NSRCEL has been instrumental in nurturing startups in sectors like tech, social impact, and sustainable businesses. In January 2025, NSRCEL, in collaboration with SBI Foundation, launched the "Incubating Incubators Initiative (i-Cube)" to enhance incubation centres in underrepresented regions of India.[2] NSRCEL's CEO, Anand Sri Ganesh, emphasized the initiative's role in fostering localized innovation and economic growth.[3]
IIIT-B Innovation Centre
The Innovation Centre at International Institute of Information Technology, Bangalore focuses on supporting startups with innovative ideas, particularly in digital technologies. Led by CEO Dr. Lakshmi Jagannathan, the centre emphasizes market access and mentorship over traditional incubation models. It offers a six-month pre-incubation program and a two-to-three-year incubation phase, providing startups with technology support, investor connections, and small grants.[4] The centre collaborates with corporates to facilitate translational research and IP development.
Amrita TBI
Amrita Technology Business Incubator (TBI), part of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, is recognized as one of India's top startup incubators, having received the National Award for the Best Startup Incubator. It has incubated over 208 startups and mentored more than 500 startup ideas, focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship in Bangalore's ecosystem.[5]
GINServ
GINServ, a Bangalore-based incubator, is known for its global collaborations and strategic alliances with international incubators, fostering cross-cultural exchange and innovation. It supports early-stage startups with mentorship, infrastructure, and access to venture capitalists.[6]
IAMAI Mobile 10X Accelerator and NASSCOM 10K Startup Warehouse
Located in the same facility, these programs provide startups with resources like an IoT Lab, Device Lab, and event spaces. They support tech startups, particularly in mobile technology and IoT, and have been pivotal in nurturing Bangalore's tech ecosystem.[7]
EU-India Incubators and Accelerators Network
Launched in Bangalore in October 2018, this network connects European and Indian incubators to foster collaboration in sectors like agriculture, health, and energy. The initiative, supported by the European Union, enhances cross-border innovation and knowledge sharing.[8]
Impact and Contributions
Bangalore's incubators have significantly contributed to the city's reputation as a global tech hub. They provide startups with access to mentorship, seed funding, and infrastructure, enabling them to scale and compete globally. Incubators like NSRCEL and IIIT-B Innovation Centre have been praised for their role in connecting startups with markets and investors, thus driving economic growth and job creation.[9]
The presence of incubators within academic institutions like IIMB and IIIT-B facilitates cross-disciplinary collaboration and access to cutting-edge research, giving startups a competitive edge. Government initiatives have further strengthened this ecosystem by providing funding and policy support.[10]
Notable Leaders
Several influential incubator leaders in Bangalore have been recognized for their contributions. Prof. Srivardhini K. Jha, Chairperson of NSRCEL, is noted for empowering startups with global ambitions.[11] Dr. Lakshmi Jagannathan of IIIT-B Innovation Centre is celebrated for her innovative approach to incubation, emphasizing market connections.[12]
See Also
- Startup India
- Atal Innovation Mission
- Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
- International Institute of Information Technology, Bangalore
- Entrepreneurship in India
- Silicon Valley
References
- ↑ "How Incubation Centres in Indian Colleges are Transforming Ideas into Impactful Startups". CXO Today. 16 June 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "SBI Foundation and NSRCEL launch 'Incubating Incubators Initiative'". The Hindu. 16 January 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "SBI Foundation and NSRCEL launch 'Incubating Incubators Initiative'". The Hindu. 16 January 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "'Bengaluru in a good position to become the deep-tech hub of the country'". The Hindu. 6 January 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "Top 22 Startup Accelerators & Incubators in Bangalore". XYZ Lab. 28 February 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "Top 22 Startup Accelerators & Incubators in Bangalore". XYZ Lab. 28 February 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "A visit to dynamic Startup Incubators in Bengaluru". Medium. 12 March 2017. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "EU-India Incubators and Accelerators Network launched in Bangalore". Medium. 10 October 2018. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "'Bengaluru in a good position to become the deep-tech hub of the country'". The Hindu. 6 January 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "How Incubation Centres in Indian Colleges are Transforming Ideas into Impactful Startups". CXO Today. 16 June 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "India's 50 Most Influential Incubator Leaders". Indian Startup Times. 25 June 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ↑ "'Bengaluru in a good position to become the deep-tech hub of the country'". The Hindu. 6 January 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.