Beyond Bengaluru: Shivamogga has potential to become a hub for IT companies, opine experts

Shivamogga, with better road and air connectivity, along with a talented pool of individuals, has greater potential to become a digital powerhouse, entrepreneurs and representatives of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry opined on Saturday.

Shivamogga, with better road and air connectivity, along with a talented pool of individuals, has greater potential to become a digital powerhouse, entrepreneurs and representatives of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry opined on Saturday.

Participating in the programme 'Beyond Bengaluru,' which was organised to explore opportunities for IT industries outside the state capital, the founders of tech companies felt that there was a need to look beyond Bengaluru and that there was a chance to create many Bengalurus outside Bengaluru.

Mr. Chetan Dixit, Vice President of the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), stated in an interaction that the mission is focusing on IT, electronics, innovation, startups, talent acceleration, and, most importantly, improving infrastructure outside Bengaluru. “In recent days, companies initiated in small towns like Udupi have grown to the global level. The CEO of a major audio manufacturing company landed directly in Mangaluru and decided to set up the company’s Research and Development wing in the coastal district. We need to showcase the infrastructure facilities to attract investors,” he stated.

Sharath Gowda, founder of My Office Space in Mysuru, said that when he founded his company, one of his objectives was to concentrate solely on urban localities outside Bengaluru. His initiative received good support, and he expanded it to other cities. H.A. Kiran, chairman of the IT and Innovation Committee of FKCCI, felt that someone could explore opportunities to create infrastructure facilities in cities like Shivamogga or Hassan, similar to what Sharath Gowda has done in Mysuru.

Sandeep Nagabhushan Aithal from the Infosys Innovation Fund said that the firm he represents has supported many businesses in smaller cities and would also encourage entrepreneurs in cities like Shivamogga, which is known for its better connectivity. “The road connecting Bengaluru and Shivamogga is comparable to the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway, for the last 40-kilometer stretch,” he said.

Suresh Kumar, founder of Kaleitics, narrated the story of his company, which he set up in Shivamogga in 2011. “Initially, there were issues with internet connectivity and power supply. Gradually, these needs were fulfilled, and now 170 people work for the company, which has offices in several locations, including Chicago,” he said. The founder stated that his company offers salaries higher than those of companies in Bengaluru to attract workers to the IT company in Shivamogga. He also stressed the need for improved infrastructure facilities in the city.