IESA and KDEM Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Karnataka's ESDM and Semiconductor Ecosystem



IESA and KDEM Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Karnataka's ESDM and Semiconductor Ecosystem
In a significant move to bolster the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) and semiconductor sectors in Karnataka, the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) and the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) have announced a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to enhance the startup landscape, foster innovation, and promote entrepreneurship within the industry. 
IESA and KDEM signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive efforts in establishing a robust pipeline of companies in Karnataka, encompassing fabrication units, OSAT/ATMP units, and component manufacturers. Under this agreement, IESA will leverage its expertise to provide insights and analysis, offering a clear understanding of the current semiconductor and ESDM ecosystem in Karnataka. Additionally, IESA will make strategic recommendations to foster growth in Bengaluru and other regions identified under KDEM's 'Beyond Bengaluru' initiative.
Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, CEO of KDEM, expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting Karnataka's pivotal role in the IT/ITES revolution in India. He stated, "Karnataka has been at the forefront of the IT/ITES revolution in the country, which led to the emergence of some of the world's biggest technology giants. As a state, we possess the rich experience, knowledge, and understanding necessary for building robust ecosystems. We are confident that this partnership with IESA will unite a broader spectrum of like-minded organizations and help make Karnataka the global hub for ESDM".
Dr. Veerappan, Chairperson of IESA, praised KDEM's efforts in shaping the ESDM sector through startup incubators and accelerators. He remarked, "KDEM has played a crucial role in developing the ESDM sector in the state. Our collective efforts will help establish a strong pipeline of companies and attract investments, benefiting both Bengaluru and emerging cities across Karnataka".
Mr. Ashok Chandak, President of IESA, emphasized the importance of the MoU in fostering greater collaboration and engagement with the government. He stated, "The MoU will pave the way for greater collaboration and engagement with the government, addressing policy gaps and recommending measures for ecosystem enhancement with key stakeholders. KDEM and IESA bring an unmatched wealth of knowledge and networks, which will be instrumental in building the ESDM ecosystem in Karnataka and beyond".
Mr. B V Naidu, Chairperson of KDEM, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing Karnataka's role in the IT/ITES revolution and its vibrant startup ecosystem. He said, "Karnataka has played a pivotal role in the IT/ITES revolution in the country. The state is home to the largest number of technology startups that can become enablers in this process. We are confident that this partnership with IESA will bring together a wider array of like-minded organizations and aid in making Karnataka the global hub for ESDM".
As part of this strategic partnership, KDEM and IESA will co-host events related to the ESDM industry, startups, and innovation within Karnataka. They will also act as strategic partners for selected events outside the state. Both organizations have agreed to jointly produce publications and periodicals to promote their shared mission and vision.