Wayanad has been officially identified as the next startup hub in the state by Startup India, a flagship initiative of the Central Government. The announcement was made by Mamatha Venkatesh, Head of Startup India, during the Kerala Innovation Festival held in Kochi. Wayanad’s selection stems from its inclusion in the Aspirational Districts Programme, making it the only district in Kerala among 112 across India to earn this distinction.
Wayanad is already gaining recognition for its grassroots innovation, especially in sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism. Promising startups like BoTToB Tech Solutions, which focuses on solar cookers and hydroponics, and LNS AgriTech, which develops aeroponic saffron cultivation, highlight the region’s untapped potential.
To foster this growing ecosystem, Startup India and the Kerala government will jointly establish incubation centres, attract Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), and host strategic workshops to nurture infrastructure and mentorship networks.
This move is part of a national effort to decentralise innovation and empower Tier II and III districts, aligning with Kerala Startup Mission’s broader goal of inclusive entrepreneurship. With over ₹6,000 crore raised for 6,500+ startups in the last decade, Kerala is now poised to transform Wayanad into a key innovation engine—especially in areas like agri-tech, green tourism, and social enterprise.
