Bengaluru: In a remarkable stride towards fostering international collaboration, the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) embarked on a significant leg of their India Mission 2024. The delegation, led by their enthusiastic and visionary President, Mr. Murarilal Thapliyal, set foot in Bengaluru on 2nd February, a city pulsating with innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. This visit wasn’t just a meeting of minds but a confluence of aspirations and dreams, shaped by the vibrant startup culture of Bengaluru.
Bengaluru, often hailed as India’s Silicon Valley, has a narrative worth telling. With over 200,000 startups and a staggering $64 billion in venture capital, this city isn’t just leading India’s startup story; it’s redefining it. More than half of the country’s mega-deals in the startup sector have their roots here, a testament to Bengaluru’s indomitable spirit.
The delegation’s journey began with a heartwarming reception at the World Trade Center. The Managing Director, Mr. Vineet Verma, with his welcoming demeanor, set the perfect tone for what was to unfold. As the delegation ventured into the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, they were greeted by two pillars of the startup world – Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, CEO, and Mr. Siddhartha Anand, Vice President of Startup and Innovation. Their insights painted a picture of Karnataka’s, particularly Bengaluru’s, incredible growth in the startup arena.
One revelation that stood out was Bengaluru’s newfound title as the “GCC Capital” of the world. This recognition sparked an animated discussion, particularly with ICCC’s Corporate Secretary and Vice President, Mr. Chirag Shah. His sharing of Canada’s thriving AI ecosystem and the ensuing dialogue on potential collaborations between Indian and Canadian incubators and startups was not just informative but inspiring.
The day reached its zenith with an interactive session hosted by the Jain International Trade Organization’s Bangalore chapter. Here, a tapestry of opportunities in international trade between Canada and India was unraveled, focusing on areas ripe for collaboration and mutual growth. This session wasn’t just a discussion; it was a bridge being built, connecting two diverse yet complementary economies.
The visit culminated at the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI). With its rich history dating back to the Mysore Chamber of Commerce in 1916, FKCCI’s warm reception was a fitting end to this journey. The agreement to promote tourism and startup ecosystems between Karnataka and Canada, born out of this meeting, marks a new chapter in bilateral relations, promising to unlock new avenues for trade and commerce.
Through these engagements, the ICCC’s visit to Bengaluru has not only highlighted the potential for collaborative growth but also strengthened the bonds between India and Canada. This mission was more than just a series of meetings; it was a step towards a future where innovation knows no boundaries, and partnerships pave the way for shared success.