The Karnataka government on Monday announced the launch of ELEVATE Minorities 2026 and ELEVATE NxT 2026-27, offering grant-in-aid of up to Rs 50 lakh for minority entrepreneurs and Rs 1 crore for DeepTech startups to promote inclusive entrepreneurship and innovation.
Applications for both programmes open on October 13 and close on November 13, 2026, the Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology said. Applications can be submitted through the department's official website.
ELEVATE Minorities 2026 targets early-stage funding and ecosystem support for entrepreneurs from minority communities recognised by the Karnataka State Minorities Commission and the Karnataka Minorities Development Corporation — including Muslims, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs and Parsis. Eligible startups can receive a one-time grant of up to Rs 50 lakh for prototype development, market development and scaling, plus mentoring and incubation support through government-backed centres at subsidised rates.
ELEVATE NxT focuses on startups developing advanced technologies rooted in scientific discovery and engineering, with grants up to Rs 1 crore.
Selection runs through online applications, eligibility and document verification, in-person pitching, and a Grand Finale — applicants are assessed on innovation, socio-economic impact, business model, team capability and budget utilisation, with startups scoring at least 60 marks qualifying for the finale. IT/BT and E-Governance Minister Priyank Kharge said the initiatives reflect the state's commitment to an inclusive, innovation-driven startup ecosystem.
Why it matters for founders
Non-dilutive grants are the cheapest capital a founder will ever raise — and Karnataka just opened two large windows with a hard November 13 deadline. If you're a minority entrepreneur or a DeepTech team, the Rs 50 lakh-Rs 1 crore question is whether your application is in before the portal closes.