Sun May 11 15:41:37 UTC 2025: ## IISc to Launch Startup Incubator in Rural Karnataka
**Bengaluru, May 11, 2025** – The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is planning a new startup incubator in Challakere, Chitradurga district, Karnataka, to foster entrepreneurship in rural areas. This initiative, spearheaded by IISc’s Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID) through its SEED (Science and Engineering for Economic Development) program, aims to provide local residents with resources and mentorship to develop their business ideas.
The proposed “entrepreneurship in residence” program will offer applicants financial assistance and on-site accommodation. This builds upon SEED’s existing work in the region, which includes three years of agricultural and wool-weaving development projects, and a six-month STEM education program for approximately 1,500 students in 14 local schools.
SEED has also established a mobile processing centre for local weavers, introducing modern techniques like electronic shearing and exploring innovative uses for wool waste, such as extracting keratin proteins. Further initiatives include collaborations with local farmers and farmer producer organizations (FPOs), research into alternative textile fibers (banana and sisal), and the development of agricultural machinery. The program is working in conjunction with Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra and the agricultural university of Dharwad. Discussions with the Karnataka state government are underway to finalize the incubator’s establishment.
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