Thiruvananthapuram, July 19: The Gulf region has traditionally been a beacon of opportunity for Keralites, and now the startup sector is following suit. Over 30 startups from Kerala are gearing up to explore prospects in West Asia, with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) spearheading this initiative as part of their ongoing efforts through Startup Infinity, a dedicated arm established in 2023 to facilitate such collaborations.
The upcoming ‘Scaleup in the UAE’ session, co-organized by Startup Middle East and KSUM, will take place on July 22 at the KSUM office in Thiruvananthapuram. This event aims to provide a platform for these startups to network, collaborate, and potentially expand their operations to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The UAE has been actively courting startups from across the globe, recognizing them as key drivers of innovation and economic growth. By partnering with Kerala Startup Mission, these efforts are being strengthened, offering a valuable opportunity for startups based in Kerala to establish a foothold in the region.
This strategic move aligns with Kerala’s larger vision of becoming a global startup hub by 2030, as outlined in the ‘Startup Kerala Vision Document’ presented at Brussels in 2024. The document outlines various initiatives to support and nurture the startup ecosystem in the state, including facilitating international collaborations and creating an enabling environment for startups to thrive.
As the countdown begins for the ‘Scaleup in the UAE’ session, the participating startups are busy preparing their pitches, refining their business models, and strategizing for potential partnerships. The event promises to be a significant step forward in Kerala’s journey towards becoming a global startup powerhouse, leveraging opportunities both at home and abroad.