Why Bolpu Matters
The Opportunity
Despite our rich heritage, many traditions and enterprises in DK are at risk. Youth migrate out, artisans go unseen, and startups lack nurturing soil. Bolpu brings the region back into the light.
What is Bolpu?
A year-long accelerator. A five-year mission. A grassroots revolution. Bolpu aims to nurture 50 entrepreneurs over five years across 10+ sectors through mentorship, visibility, and funding access placing DK’s cultural legacy at the center of future economies.
4D Strategy
At the heart of it lies the Bolpu Strategy a 4-stage approach that identifies, empowers, and launches entrepreneurial talent from even the remotest parts of Dakshina Kannada. Each stage of Bolpu is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and propel them toward scalable success rooted in local identity and global relevance.
This is for
Early/mid-stage and emerging entrepreneurs who: are based in or deeply connected to Dakshina Kannada, work in sectors tied to the region’s cultural and economic identity identified by themes of the cohort, have a product, service, or solution with the potential for growth and impact and are looking for mentorship, visibility, market access, and financial guidance to scale their venture.
Who Can Apply?
We’re looking for early and mid-stage entrepreneurs who are ready to scale, break new ground, or expand into new markets with roots in Mangaluru and a clear commitment to building businesses that matter.
Personal Eligibility
- Be 18 years or older at the time of application
- Be based in Mangaluru or have a demonstrable connection to the region (origin, impact area, or active operations)
- Be available to actively participate in a year-long program (in-person and online sessions)
Startup Eligibility
- You are a founder or co-founder of an existing venture (idea, prototype, early revenue, or scaling phase)
- Your idea or startup has early traction, a working prototype, or a defined customer base
- you're a traditional business with a clear plan to scale or enter a new market
Other Considerations
- First-time and repeat founders are welcome
- No prior investment is required, but early revenue or piloting helps
- Preference is given to startups with a social, cultural, or regional impact angle