Mangaluru, 8 September 2026: Innovative startups from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada and Kodagu have an opportunity to pitch their ventures to investors and gain access to strategic mentorship through Mangaluru BLUE 2026, with the application deadline extended to September 10, 2026.
Initiative is aimed at identifying promising startups from Karnataka's coastal and adjoining districts and helping them move towards investment readiness, market opportunities and business growth. Programme will bring together startups, investors, corporates, industry leaders and ecosystem partners to strengthen the emerging startup ecosystem in the region.
Top 10 startups to get investor access
Top 10 selected startups will receive an opportunity to pitch their businesses before leading investors.
They will also get access to:
- Investor networks and strategic mentorship
- Investment-readiness support
- Corporate and industry connections
- Greater visibility through government and partner networks
- Opportunities to engage with the wider startup ecosystem
Programme is designed to help startups strengthen their business proposition and become better prepared to approach investors and strategic partners.
KDEM to support startup ecosystem
Initiative is supported through the broader innovation and digital-economy ecosystem associated with the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM). KDEM is a Section 8 organisation designed to serve as a knowledge bridge between the Government of Karnataka and industry. Through such ecosystem initiatives, startups can gain access to industry networks, institutional support and opportunities to connect with potential investors and business partners.
Top 3 startups to receive special recognition
While the Top 10 startups will get the opportunity to pitch, the Top 3 startups will receive special recognition during the main Mangaluru BLUE event. Initiative is expected to provide startups from the coastal region with a platform to move beyond the local ecosystem and showcase their ideas to investors and industry stakeholders.
Key dates for startups
Last date to apply is September 10, 2026. Top 10 startups selected for the pitch will present their ventures on Tuesday, September 22, at wrkwrk Mindspace, Mangaluru. Top 3 startups will be felicitated on Wednesday, September 23, at the Dr TMA Pai International Convention Centre, Mangaluru.
For startups based in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada and Kodagu, Mangaluru BLUE 2026 offers an opportunity to showcase their innovations, build investor connections and explore pathways for expansion.
Startups interested in participating have been urged to complete their applications before the September 10 deadline. Registration Link - Beyond Bengaluru: BLUE 2026 (Mangaluru Cluster)
Keywords: Mangaluru BLUE 2026, coastal Karnataka startups, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, KDEM, Mangaluru startups, startup investors, Citizen News Puttur