The three-day Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024, held at the Bangalore Palace, concluded today with resounding success, breaking new ground in the world of technology and innovation. Themed “Unbound,” the summit served as a global gathering for visionaries, industry leaders, and tech enthusiasts.
Notable figures, including Rishad Premji, Executive Chairman, Wipro Limited; Dr. S. Somanath, Chairman, ISRO; Nithin Kamath, CEO & Founder, Zerodha & Rainmatter; Sriharsha Majety, CEO & Co-Founder of Swiggy, Peyush Bansal, Co-founder, Lenskart, and Anne Neuberger, Deputy Assistant to the President &Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber & Emerging Technologies; Nuseir Yassin, CEO, Nas Company; Sandhya Devanathan, Vice president & Head, Meta India addressed the attendees among the 5210 delegates and key dignitaries present. The overwhelming response saw enthusiastic participation from diverse backgrounds, including tech professionals, entrepreneurs, government officials, and students.
The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 has been a global standout, with participants from 51 countries, 84 sessions, and insights from 521 speakers. The event featured 686 exhibitors including 403 startups, 4,775 meetings exchanged, 570 meetings were conducted in the B2B Lounge, along with 35 on-the-spot physical meetings at the venue.
With strong attendance 36,837 and 21,372 registered business visitors, the summit also recorded an impressive 50,000+ expo footfalls. Countries such as Australia, Russia, Germany, Denmark, Korea, USA, Japan, Bavaria, Israel, and more made significant contributions at the GIA Expo, alongside academic institutions like GITAM, Amity, Manipal, Alliance, SRM, VTU, RV, JSS Science & Technology, and Christ University, and industry leaders such as Infosys, Biocon, and Microsoft Startups.
The BTS 2024 exhibition also showcased participation of 61 companies in the International Pavilions, highlighting groundbreaking technologies from global exhibitors representing countries like Australia, Russia, Germany, Denmark, South Korea, the USA, Japan, Bavaria, and Israel. Special sectorial pavilions highlighted breakthroughs in Deeptech, Biotech, Healthtech, Spacetech, Mobility, Greentech, and Fintech. Prominent exhibitors included Kyndryl, Biocon, Applied Materials, Intel, Lam Research, NXP Semiconductor, Groww, Uber, Teceze, LSEG, Novo Nordisk, Norwich Clinical, ARTPark, along with R&D leaders like DRDO, CSIR, C-DAC, BIRAC, IIIT-Bangalore, Raman Research Institute, and IISc Bangalore.
Throughout the summit, groundbreaking technologies, solutions, and policies were unveiled, promising to reshape industries and societies. Renowned innovators, scientists, and tech evangelists from around the world actively participated, emphasizing the transformative potential of technological advancements. The Global Innovation Alliances (GIA) World Stage 1 and 2 featured 183 speakers, 17 countries the USA, Austria, France, Singapore, Finland, Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, UK, European Union, Belgium, South Korea, Israel, Japan, Australia, Switzerland, UAE participated in the sessions and witnessed the contribution of ambassadors from 4 countries –. Finland, Australia, UK and South Korea.
Summary of the Three-Day Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024:
- The launch of the Nipuna Karnataka logo marked the beginning of a transformative upskilling initiative, aimed at enhancing the skills of local talent to improve their global competitiveness in emerging technologies. As part of its commitment to driving innovation and skilling, the Government of Karnataka signed on Day 1, signed 6 pivotal MoUs with global technology leaders during Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024.These partnerships, under the Nipuna Karnataka Skilling Program, aim to skill 1 lakh individuals in cutting-edge IT domains. Key collaborations include Microsoft and Intel, which will upskill 10,000 individuals annually in DeepTech and 20,000 in AI, respectively. Accenture will train 10,000 professionals in Cyber and Quantum Technologies, while IBM will empower 50,000 learners with AI and Cloud expertise. Additionally, a Letter of Intent was signed with Nvidia to establish a state-of-the-art AI Data Centre. The exchange of MoUs with key representatives from these global tech leaders highlighted Karnataka’s dedication to fostering innovation and advancing technological excellence. The MoU with BFSI Consortium was signed to train 10,000 trainees in banking and financial sector and ensuring that they get placement in various reputed companies working in Fintech Sector.
- The Startup Springboard initiative, unveiled at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, highlights Karnataka’s dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. This flagship program focuses on three core pillars: Investor Connect, Mentor Connect, and INNOVERSE, designed to address key challenges in funding, mentorship, and infrastructure. Through the government-led Investor Connect, over 185 startups pitched their ideas to 68 unique investors, while 18 accomplished mentors guided more than 120 emerging startups, strengthening the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- The Biotech track opened with a welcome address by Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (Chairperson, Vision Group on Biotechnology), followed by a Keynote by Dr. Rajesh Gokhale (Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, GoI) and, a Letter of Intent was signed by Department of E, IT, Bt, Govt; of Karnataka with Stanford Bio for establishing a Founders Forum, and a joint declaration with Health Tech Hub Copenhagen was announced to advance digital health collaboration.
- The Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 20 GIA partner nations participated, featuring high-level ministerial delegations, startups, and companies. Notable highlights included the Sweden-India Business Council delegation, showcasing cutting-edge startups in AI, Deep Tech, Biotech, MedTech, and Healthcare, and the European Union delegation, representing clusters from six nations: Portugal, Romania, Poland, Bulgaria, Denmark, and France.The summit was further elevated by the presence of British High Commissioner Ms. Lindy Cameron, who engaged in meaningful discussions with Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, and RDPR Shri Priyank Kharge on fostering deeper collaborations, including partnerships between Karnataka’s Centers of Excellence and the UK’s Catapult Centres. Key achievements included MoUs with Finland and Switzerland to boost startup access to global markets and ecosystems, and the strategic formation of a Sister Summits partnership with France to enhance bilateral cooperation through mutual participation in marquee events and summits.
- Karnataka announced the establishment of a new Centre of Excellence in AI with IIT Alumni Centre Bangalore. The centre will give incubation space to start-ups, skill and train in AI and ensure they get market access.
- On Day 1 of Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, an engaging fireside chat unfolded between Rishad Premji, Executive Chairman of Wipro Limited, and TM Veeraraghav, Executive Editor of NDTV, on the theme Building Legacy Through Purpose. The session explored the transformative pace of technological advancements and the critical need for reskilling to meet evolving job demands. Premji highlighted the value of cultivating a learning mindset, agility, and essential soft skills like empathy and critical thinking. The discussion also delved into the government’s role in accelerating AI adoption, the potential of data to revolutionize education and healthcare, and the growing focus on sustainability and mental health within corporate culture. Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Premji emphasized the importance of staying grounded and advised startups to prioritize a strong organizational culture and long-term profitability over fleeting valuations.
- Startup Genome: Hyper growth Programme: Karnataka is set to launch the Hypergrowth Karnataka program in partnership with Startup Genome, aiming to propel the state’s most promising scaleups to global success. Starting this year, the program’s inaugural cohort will target Enterprise SaaS and Fintech companies, providing them with essential skills, global networks, and strategic support for international growth. Participants will benefit from commercialization assistance, investor connections, and insights from global executives, empowering them to scale into global category leaders. Eligible companies must have raised Series A funding, generate over $1 million in ARR, and have ambitions to expand into international markets like the U.S.
- A MoU was signed with Letsventure aims to enhance startup visibility, provide mentorship, and streamline fundraising opportunities.
- On the Day 2 of Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024, the Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and S&T, Government of Karnataka, launched 50 groundbreaking products and solutions developed by startups. These innovative products span a wide range of sectors, including IT/ITeS, Agri-Tech, Med-Tech, Clean-Tech, AI, Deep Tech, Blockchain, IoT, Cybersecurity, SaaS, Satcom, AVGC, and ESDM. The solutions include AI and IoT-based devices, automotive manufacturing technologies, digital platforms for fraud prevention, smart warehousing, and deep tech solutions for quality assessment. Many of the startups behind these products are incubated in government-supported centers like K-tech Innovation Hubs and CoEs and have benefitted from the state’s Idea2PoC ELEVATE seed funding program. Of the 50 startups, 23 are led by women entrepreneurs, showcasing Karnataka’s commitment to fostering diverse innovation.
- Day 2 of Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 saw the leading associations U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC), and AMCHAM deepen its commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration between the U.S. and India through the India-U.S. Tech Conclave. The discussions spotlighted transformative technologies like AI in agriculture, logistics, and ESDM, with leaders such as Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, and RDPR, Government of Karnataka and U.S. Consul General Christopher Hodges emphasizing the importance of balanced policies to drive growth. Under the Unbound theme, USIBC reaffirmed its role in bridging the two nations’ tech ecosystems, showcasing AI’s vast potential across sectors and paving the way for sustainable investment and innovation.
- One of the Summit’s highlights was the Draft Karnataka Space Technology Policy 2024-29 which was officially launched on Day 2 of Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, marking a significant step toward enhancing the state’s leadership in the global space sector. The policy, shaped by extensive consultations with startups, MSMEs, investors, and established space entities, outlines Karnataka’s vision for the rapidly growing space industry, backed by technological advancements and regulatory reforms. With the space sector set to become a USD 44 billion industry in the next decade, the policy aims to strengthen Karnataka’s already robust space ecosystem, which includes ISRO, IN-SPACe, and numerous academic and research institutions. Bengaluru, known as the hub for NewSpace startups, has attracted over USD 150 million in funding, further solidifying the state’s role as a space powerhouse. This forward-thinking policy aims to foster innovation, create high-skill employment, and drive sustainable growth, making Karnataka a key player in the global space economy.
- Another highlight from the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 was the Karnataka GCC Roundtable, where global leaders from major Global Capability Centres (GCCs) gathered to discuss the sector’s challenges, experiences, and future prospects. Moderated by Bhaskar Verma, Regional Director at NASSCOM, the roundtable featured industry giants such as Philips, HSBC, SAP, JP Morgan, Nokia, and Novo Nordisk, alongside key stakeholders. Hon’ble Minister for IT and Bt, and RDPR, Government of Karnataka Shri Priyank Kharge, highlighted Karnataka’s role as a global hub for GCCs and reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the sector. The session also explored critical topics such as talent acquisition, infrastructure development, and expanding GCC operations into Tier 2 and 3 cities under the state’s Beyond Bengaluru initiative. Through insightful discussions, the roundtable further reinforced Karnataka’s position as a prime destination for GCCs and set the stage for the continued evolution of its GCC ecosystem.
- At Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, Madan Padaki, President of TiE Bangalore and Chair of TGS24 unveiled the 9th Edition of the TiE Global Summit 2024. Scheduled for December 9th to 11th at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), with a grand finale on December 12th in Mysore, this edition coincides with TiE Bangalore’s 25th anniversary. The summit highlights a collaborative effort with other TiE chapters across Karnataka and is supported by the Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) and the Government of Karnataka as the host state partner. With the theme “Putting Entrepreneurship First,” the summit aims to foster an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, democratize opportunities, and unite entrepreneurs from around the globe.
- The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 was further distinguished by the STPI IT Export Awards – Karnataka, celebrating excellence in IT and electronics exports. Infosys Ltd. was honored as the IT Ratna of Karnataka for exports surpassing ₹15,000 crore, while companies like Accenture, Amazon, and Tata Consultancy Services received the IT Pride of Karnataka for exports between ₹5,000 crore and ₹15,000 crore. The awards also recognized high-growth companies such as Mercedes-Benz Research & Development India Private Ltd. and Wissen Infotech for job creation and promoting women’s employment. Regional leaders like L&T Technology Services and Glowtouch Technologies were acknowledged for driving exports from Tier II and III cities, showcasing Karnataka’s role as a global tech hub. Other prominent winners included Bosch, Goldman Sachs, Intel, J.P. Morgan, Qualcomm, Samsung, SAP, and VMware, all receiving the IT Pride of Karnataka award.
- Announcement of Startup Awards 2025: The awards will recognize excellence in innovation, scalability, and socio-economic impact across India’s startup ecosystem. A rigorous evaluation process will culminate in a grand award ceremony featuring eminent speakers, jury members, entrepreneurs, and investors.
- The “Women in Leadership: Breaking the Glass Ceiling to Unbound Possibilities” session at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 featuring Sandhya Devanathan, Vice President & Head, Meta, Priya Mohan, Investor General Catalyst and Ipsita Dasgupta, Managing Director, HP India Market spotlighted the challenges women face in leadership, including gender bias, pay gaps, and societal expectations. Panelists emphasized the importance of support systems, flexible work policies, and shared parenting responsibilities in fostering an inclusive workplace. The discussion also highlighted the need for self-awareness, open family conversations, and advocating for systemic change to ease the burden on women and minorities while empowering them to thrive in leadership roles.
- The BTS Innovation Dome at the Summit hosted diverse programs, including workshops, product launches, and the 17th BioQuiz finale, which received over 500 registrations from across India, with participation from students representing 23 states and UTs. Mohammad Hashmi from Osmania Medical College emerged as the winner, earning ₹50,000, while Paramjot Singh from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar State Institute of Medical Sciences, Mohali, secured the second position with ₹25,000. The Bio Posters – Walkway of Discovery showcased innovative research by 101 young talents from top institutions, with winners like Harsha Rani from IBAB. The Smart Bio Awards recognized achievers across categories, including Startup of the Year (Anabio Technologies) and Women Entrepreneur of the Year (Ms. Divya Chandradhara).
- Tanish Kumar Sahu from BSP Senior Secondary School, Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, emerged as the National Final champion, while Eklavya from Swami Vivekanand Govt. Model School, Ganganagar, Rajasthan secured the runner-up position in the 25th anniversary edition of the TCS Rural IT quiz. Both students were awarded educational scholarships of Rs 100,000 and Rs 50,000, respectively, with finalists receiving Rs 10,000 each. The quiz, which attracted over 5.6 lakh participants from smaller towns across India, was open to students from classes 8 to 12 and featured a combination of online tests, virtual rounds, and physical quiz competitions. The national finals tested students’ knowledge in technology across five engaging segments.
Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, under its Green BTS initiative, showcased India’s first sustainable and responsible summit of this scale, setting a benchmark in eco-conscious practices. The event achieved “Zero Waste to Landfill” by recycling 98% of waste through 100% source segregation. Free EV bus shuttle services provided by BMTC were utilized by 24% of visitors, reducing carbon emissions by 9% and contributing to an overall 10% year-on-year reduction in the summit’s carbon footprint. Around 686 exhibitors embraced sustainability, with three exemplary stalls being honored with the ‘Sustainability Stall Award.’ Live dashboards, thought-provoking videos, and biodiversity demonstrations furthered environmental awareness while addressing eight Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Bengaluru, the Garden City, is poised to become India’s Sustainable City.
The Valedictory Session of Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 was graced by Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, and RDPR, Government of Karnataka, along with Shri Sharath Kumar Bachegowda, Chairman of KEONICS; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka, Dr. Sharanprakash Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Medical Education & Skill Development, Entrepreneurship & Livelihood; Shri Eshwar Khandre, Hon’ble Minister for Forest, Ecology, and Environment, and Shri Radha Krishna, MP, Gulbarga, GoK. The event celebrated excellence through a series of awards and felicitations including Assistive Tech Awards, recognition of Startup Ecosystem Enablers, Smart Bio Awards, Poster Awards, Exhibitor Awards and ATF Awards.
As Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 concluded, it left an enduring legacy of innovation, collaboration, and progress, solidifying India’s position as a global technology leader. The summit exemplified Karnataka’s spirit of sustainability and ingenuity, fostering a dynamic platform for dialogue, partnerships, and growth. Bengaluru, the nation’s tech capital, once again demonstrated its leadership in shaping the future of technology and innovation. Looking ahead, the 28th edition promises to build on this momentum, delivering even greater milestones and advancements in technology and sustainability.
