Keralam CM opens Huddle Global 2026, calls for empowering innovators to build globally competitive businesses
Agraj Pratap Singh
Kovalam, (Keralam) Nov 12 (UNI) Chief Minister VD Satheesan on Thursday said that the next generation of entrepreneurs in Keralam will no longer have to leave the state to build technologies and enterprises for the world, highlighting the state's thriving startup ecosystem and its ambition to develop globally competitive businesses.
Inaugurating the eighth edition of Huddle Global 2026 in Kovalam, Satheesan said the government aims to nurture high-revenue startups, strengthen advanced research and incubation facilities, and create greater opportunities for young innovators.
The 8th edition of Huddle Global 2026 brings together innovators, entrepreneurs and investors from across the world.
He said Keralam's startup ecosystem has grown to more than 9,200 startups, generating over 76,000 jobs, building on the foundation laid by the state's earlier Technology Startup Policy.
"We are announcing a major shift in our startup strategy: from quantity to quality, from creating startups to building globally successful enterprises," he said.
He highlighted the government's priorities, including plans to establish 10 world-class, research-driven incubators and strengthen startup funding through innovation grants, R&D support and seed financing.
He also pointed to the government's efforts to empower young innovators through Gozip, its flagship GenZ Innovation Programme, which aims to establish district-level innovation clusters and builder residencies.
From underwater robotics and semiconductor design to artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology and maritime innovation, Keralam has the talent and potential to develop technologies for global markets, he said.
"For eight years, Huddle Global has brought the world to our shores. Now, we will take Keralam's innovations to the world," Satheesan said.
'Our goal is not merely to create more startups, but to make Keralam the place where startups grow strongest,' he added.
The Chief Minister further said that the opening of Vizhinjam International Seaport is creating new gateways to global markets, and the government is determined to take Keralam's innovation, talent and enterprises to the world.
P.K. Kunhalikutty, Minister for Industries, IT, AI and Future Technologies, S. Suhas, IAS (Special Secretary, Electronics and IT Department), Keerthy Suresh (Actress), Sophie Karlshausen (Belgian Ambassador to India), Anoop Ambika (CEO, Kerala Startup Mission), Ateesh Kumar Singh IRTS(Additional Secretary, DPIIT) M. Vincent (MLA), and Tom Thomas (COO, Kerala Startup Mission), were also present on the occasion.
The eighth edition of Huddle Global brings together innovators, entrepreneurs, startups and investors from across the world. Startups from sectors including food, technology and information technology are participating in the event, providing an opportunity to showcase their products and interact with potential investors.
During the event, Satheesan interacted with the innovators and startup founders, and experienced several products on display, including artificial intelligence-based technologies and other innovations. He encouraged young entrepreneurs and innovators to continue their work and pursue their ambitions.UNI APS AAB
