Karnataka walks the tech talk with international collaboration meet in city

Bengaluru: Karnataka set the stage for global innovation and strategic international collaboration as it hosted the Global Collaboration Meet under the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) initiative to promote the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025 (BTS 2025).

Held at Hotel Four Seasons, the event brought together trade envoys, innovation leaders and consular representatives from more than 20 countries, reaffirming Karnataka’s growing influence as a global tech hub.

The meet was presided over by key dignitaries including Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary, Electronics, IT, BT and Science and Technology, Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, Managing Director, KITS, and Daljeet Kumar, Deputy Secretary, IT, Bt and Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka.

Partner countries present included the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Japan, USA, Israel, Switzerland, Singapore, Netherlands, Poland, Denmark, France, Vietnam and more.

Strengthening international tech ties

The Global Innovation Alliance, launched in 2017, has expanded its reach from 10 partner nations to over 35 countries by 2025, reflecting Karnataka’s dynamic global engagement model.

The alliance is geared towards creating a vibrant exchange of technology, research, policy dialogue, and skill-building.

“The Global Collaboration Meet is an essential milestone as we build momentum towards BTS 2025,” said Dr. Caur, highlighting how the summit offers a world-class platform for countries to present their innovation ecosystems, academic and industry excellence, and policy leadership.

BTS 2025: A bold leap forward

Slated to take place from November 18–20, 2025, BTS 2025 will be hosted for the first time at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) — a state-of-the-art, sustainable venue.

With the theme ‘Futurise’, this 28th edition of BTS marks a significant scale-up in ambition and scope.

Expected numbers speak volumes

As many as 1,00,000 attendees,  20,000 startup founders, 1,000 investors, 15,000 delegates, 1,200 exhibitors, 600 speakers, 100 knowledge sessions, over 60 countries and 36 Indian states and UTs are expected to grace the event.

Global participation and innovation tracks

GIA partner countries are being invited to host national pavilions, lead country-specific sessions, and foster cross-border partnerships. The summit will showcase 10 themed tracks including: IT and DeepTech, Electro-Semicon, Digital Health and Biotech, AI Universe, Finverse, Defence and Spacetech, Startup Ecosystem, India-USA Tech Conclave, and My Planet My Future (focused on sustainability and climate tech).

A standout element will be the Future Makers Conclave, gathering a diverse mix of changemakers, spiritual thinkers, innovators, and artists with over 2,000 startup founders in attendance.

Spotlight on startups

Startups will receive a dedicated platform via Startup Springboard, an accelerator programme designed to link early-stage ventures with investors (via curated pitch sessions), mentors (in one-on-one clinics) and industry networks (through exhibition pavilions).  

Recognition will be given through Startup Awards, alongside sector-specific insights into scaling, fundraising and international expansion.

Additional highlights

The summit will also feature a Rural IT Quiz and Bio Quiz, poster sessions, IT and Bio Awards, Exhibitor Excellence Awards, and a Global Leaders Reception.