STPI-Thiruvananthapuram Directorate, which has been instrumental in nurturing the IT industry and the tech start-up ecosystem in Kerala, has garnered revenue of ₹7,140 crore through software exports in FY25.

To strengthen Kerala’s incubation ecosystem, STPI has developed state-of-the-art infrastructure in both Thiruvananthapuram and its Kochi sub-centre. This new, modern infrastructure, spanning 38,207 sq ft in Thiruvananthapuram and 41,274 sq ft in Kochi, is significantly benefiting start-ups by providing 200 plug-n-play seats in Thiruvananthapuram, along with 150 plug-n-play seats and 12,750 sq ft of raw space in Kochi.

Since its inception in 1991, STPI with a focus on boosting software exports has evolved into a cornerstone of innovation, start-up empowerment and digital inclusion, operating 67 centres, including 59 in tier-II and -III cities.

Inclusive growth

Arvind Kumar, Director General, STPI, said the exports by STPI in 2024-25 registered units in the country have reached more than ₹10 lakh crore. Aligned with the mandate of the government, STPI is working for the dispersal of the IT industry to tier-II and -III cities for inclusive growth.

STPI is also nurturing the tech start-up ecosystem across the country through its 24 Centres of Entrepreneurship (CoEs) and Next Generation Incubation Scheme (NGIS), and has supported more than 1,400 start-ups. Start-ups empowered through the STPI ecosystem have raised funds of ₹574 crore from investors so far.

Initiated with facilitating IT/ITeS exports, incubation and data communication services, STPI has grown into a key pillar of the nation’s digital and innovation ecosystem. It is particularly encouraging that 44 per cent of start-ups under the STPI umbrella are led by women entrepreneurs, many of whom come from smaller towns and cities, he said.

Published on June 9, 2025