Bengaluru, Feb 3 (PTI) – Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced on Monday that the highly anticipated Global Investors’ Meet – Invest Karnataka 2025 will be inaugurated on February 11. The state government expects investment proposals worth an impressive ₹10 lakh crore during the event.
Chairing a review meeting on event preparations and interdepartmental coordination, Shivakumar revealed that 18 countries would be participating in the flagship event. “Over 2,000 investors have already registered, and around 60 speakers will address key topics. Additionally, nine countries will establish dedicated pavilions showcasing their industries and investment potential,” he said.
Extensive Global Outreach
Shivakumar credited Karnataka’s Industry Minister MB Patil for his proactive role in making the event a success. Patil has led delegations to the US, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and several European nations, conducting roadshows and interactive meetings to attract investors.Addressing a press conference, Patil emphasized that this year’s Invest Karnataka would be distinct from previous editions, as all Indian states are expected to participate. “We are planning to make this event more impactful. The theme for the Global Investors' Meet 2025 is Reimagining Growth, focusing on four verticals—Tech-Driven, Green, Inclusive, and Resilient,” he stated.
Taking inspiration from the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Patil said that new policies and initiatives would be unveiled, with a commitment to implementing at least 75% of the proposed investments. To ensure smooth networking and business interactions, the inaugural event is scheduled for the evening of February 11, followed by dedicated business sessions on February 12 and 13.
New Industrial Policy & Business Reforms
A significant highlight of the event will be the launch of Karnataka’s New Industrial Policy (2025-30), which aims to enhance export promotion and offer flexible incentives based on turnover or capital investment. “We are introducing employment-linked incentives, with additional benefits for women employment. Sustainability goals and the Beyond Bengaluru project will also receive special incentives,” Patil explained.The policy will also offer additional incentives—3% for investments in backward regions, 5% for extremely backward regions, and a 10% boost for firms with dedicated Research & Development (R&D) units.
Additionally, Patil announced the introduction of business-friendly reforms, including a streamlined ease-of-doing-business framework and a revamped Single Window System. Karnataka aims to attract Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and R&D hubs to engage in local manufacturing, with a special emphasis on green energy and the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.
Top Business Leaders & Startup Challenges
Several prominent business leaders, including Kumar Mangalam Birla, Anand Mahindra, and Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, have confirmed their participation. While invitations were extended to multiple Union ministers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be unable to attend due to prior commitments in Paris.The event will feature over 25 sessions with more than 60 industry experts and top executives speaking on key business trends and opportunities. Additionally, a unique startup initiative—VentuRISE—will be launched as a Startup Challenge, where industries will present problem statements for startups to solve. Winners in three categories—electronics, aerospace & defence, and electric vehicles—will receive a cash prize of $1 lakh each, sponsored by various industries.
Investment Commitments & Future Prospects
Patil confirmed that Karnataka has already secured investment commitments worth ₹7 lakh crore, with an additional ₹3 lakh crore expected during the event. “About 16 countries are participating, and nine of them will set up dedicated pavilions. A wide range of speakers from various fields and top global companies will share their insights,” he added.With its ambitious vision and strategic approach, Invest Karnataka 2025 is set to be a milestone event, positioning Karnataka as a prime global investment hub.
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