Citation:

Dr. Pradeesh N .M. "Building a Vibrant Startup Ecosystem in Kerala: The Role of the Kerala Startup Mission in Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship" International Research Journal of Economics and Management Studies, Vol. 5, No. 5, pp. 181-187, 2026. Crossref. http://doi.org/10.56472/25835238/IRJEMS-V5I5P121

Abstract:

It is a widely acknowledged fact that the development of a resilient startup ecosystem has become a central policy objective for governments seeking to promote innovation- driven economic growth and employment generation. Kerala has emerged as a notable performer through sustained institutional support and policy interventions led by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM). This paper analyses the evolution of Kerala’s startup ecosystem with particular emphasis on the role played by KSUM in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The study analyses trends in startup formation, employment generation, incubation infrastructure, investment mobilisation, and international exposure during the period 2016-2024 by drawing on secondary data from the annual reports of the Kerala Startup Mission and other relevant government policy documents. The analysis indicates that KSUM has undergone a considerable transformation from a conventional technology business incubator into a comprehensive innovation governance institution in the state. This change has resulted not only in the quantitative expansion of the ecosystem but also in its qualitative development. The findings of the study indicate the effectiveness of state-led interventions such as innovation grants, seed funding, government procurement and institutional entrepreneurship programmes in supporting startup creation, scaling, and long-term sustainability. The research paper concludes that Kerala Startup Mission has played a catalytic role in positioning Kerala as one of India’s most structured and mature state-led startup ecosystems.

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Keywords:

Startup Ecosystem, Kerala Startup Mission, Innovation, Entrepreneurship Development.