Karnataka Acceleration Network (KAN)

Government of Karnataka 6-month accelerator, implemented by KDEM, delivered through a statewide partner network with a Beyond Bengaluru focus.

The Karnataka Acceleration Network (KAN) is a flagship initiative of the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), under the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, and Startup Karnataka. KAN runs recurring six-month cohorts for high-potential Karnataka-registered startups. Selected founders receive structured acceleration through a paired network of Bengaluru accelerators and regional institutions: GINSERV with ASTRA (UAS Dharwad), DERBI Foundation with SHINE Foundation (Mangaluru), and JAIN Launchpad with SJCE-STEP (Mysuru). The programme covers cohort readiness, business strategy, market validation, customer acquisition, investor readiness, 1:1 mentorship, infrastructure access, and a closing demo day. Cohort 1 (Apr 2025–Jan 2026) and Cohort 2 (Feb–Oct 2026) have already run; Cohort 3 opens for applications ahead of a November 2026 start.