Sumi P, Manager at Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), shared insights on how the organization supports entrepreneurship across the state. Although KSUM is a government entity, Sumi describes it as vibrant and operating at a corporate level. The mission encourages innovators to bring ideas forward and offers multiple ways to connect and receive support.
Kerala Startup Mission serves as a nodal agency funded by the Government of Kerala to develop the entrepreneurship ecosystem. KSUM’s initiatives aim to build and scale startup culture across the state. Whether students or professionals aspire to become entrepreneurs, the mission provides guidance, mentorship, and structured support for innovative, scalable, and technology-driven ventures.
KSUM focuses on startups that leverage emerging technologies. The mission supports projects across sectors including food technology, construction technology, agri-tech, and more. Startups are evaluated based on their innovation, scalability, and use of technology, and are provided funding, incubation, and market access opportunities.
One of the key facilities KSUM offers is the Fab Lab, set up in partnership with MIT Boston. The lab is a fully equipped, state-of-the-art space for digital fabrication, product development, and prototype creation. Entrepreneurs receive training, access to machinery, and guidance from experienced faculty and graduates. The lab is designed to help startups develop their initial MVP (Minimum Viable Product) and turn ideas into functional prototypes using tools like 3D printers, CNC machines, and other digital fabrication equipment.
Sumi emphasizes that KSUM is open and accessible. Entrepreneurs can visit incubation centers in Trivandrum, Kochi, Calicut, Kasaragod, and Palakkad to explore facilities, attend innovation tours, and learn about funding and support schemes. The mission also regularly conducts networking events, partner programs, and awareness sessions to familiarize startups with available resources.
Currently, Kerala has over 14,000 recognized startups under the Startup India framework, with more than 7,000 supported directly by KSUM. The organization continues to strengthen the ecosystem by helping startups across MSME levels, providing mentorship, and supporting projects that use emerging technologies for social and economic impact.
Sumi concludes by highlighting KSUM’s open-door approach: interested entrepreneurs can connect directly, tour facilities, participate in programs, and access funding and incubation support. The mission is committed to fostering innovation, supporting technology-driven solutions, and enabling the next generation of entrepreneurs in Kerala.
