Karnataka's tier-2 cities emerge as tech and manufacturing powerhouses

The Hubballi-Dharwad-Belagavi (HDB) region is strengthening its credentials as an emerging technology and advanced manufacturing centre, regional development officials said Thursday. The claim was made during the sixth edition of HDB Techceleration 2026, a two-day conference that opened in Hubballi as part of Karnataka Government's Beyond Bengaluru Mission, a state initiative aimed at developing tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

The event brought together over 700 delegates, 100 startups and 25 investors, indicating growing interest in the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem. The conference aims to showcase opportunities in technology and manufacturing sectors beyond Karnataka's capital, traditionally the state's primary innovation hub.

The HDB region, comprising three neighbouring cities in north Karnataka, has been identified as a priority area for industrial and technology development under the state's broader strategy to distribute growth across multiple urban centres. Officials argue that improved infrastructure, lower operational costs and availability of skilled workforce make the region attractive for technology companies and manufacturers seeking alternatives to Bengaluru.

The Beyond Bengaluru Mission reflects a growing recognition among Indian policymakers that concentrated development in single metropolitan areas creates infrastructure strain and limits inclusive growth. By channelling investment and entrepreneurial activity to secondary cities, the initiative aims to create employment opportunities and foster innovation in underserved regions across Karnataka.