Deshpande Startups

Deshpande Startups, formally known as the Foundation for Sandbox Startup Initiatives (FSSI), is a DST-recognized Technology Business Incubator based in Hubballi, Karnataka. Established in 2016 as a Section 8 not-for-profit, it is affiliated with the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and supported by K-Tech, Government of Karnataka.

Founded on the vision of the Deshpande Foundation (established in 1996 by Dr. Gururaj and Jaishree Deshpande), the incubator focuses on empowering Tier II and Tier III city entrepreneurs with seed funding, co-working space, mentoring, network support, technology assistance, and go-to-market strategies. The program is sector-agnostic, providing government funding, expert mentorship, and market access tailored for opportunities beyond metro cities.

Deshpande Startups has supported and nurtured more than 80 startups and over 100 early-stage entrepreneurs.

Who Benefits

Early-stage entrepreneurs and startup founders in Tier II and III cities of Karnataka and neighboring states seeking affordable incubation, seed funding, and mentorship outside major metro ecosystems.