LEAPing Forward: KSUM Transforms Incubators into Co-working Hubs

The Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), a pivotal agency driving entrepreneurship and incubation activities in the state through its incubation centres and partner incubation centres, is now reimagining these centres as dynamic co-working spaces under the banner of "LEAP Coworks" – an acronym signifying "Launch Empower Accelerate Prosper."

The Transformative "LEAP"

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan unveiled the state-wide membership card of KSUM's LEAP Coworks this week. He also inaugurated the revamped headquarters of KSUM, now revamped to match the LEAP Coworks ethos, at the Thejaswini Building in Technopark Phase 1.

Mr. Ashok Panjikaran, Senior Manager at Kerala Startup Infinity and Head of Business Linkages & Startup Life Cycle at Kerala Startup Mission told TICE News, "KSUM's journey has been marked by unwavering support to startups and entrepreneurs across Kerala. Now, we are taking a leap forward by converting our incubation centers into vibrant co-working spaces – LEAP Coworks. This transformation embodies our commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and success in the startup ecosystem."

Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri @pinarayivijayan launched the LEAP statewide Membership Card and inaugurated the LEAP Co-Works Centre on 1st August 2023 at Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram. pic.twitter.com/5c1ToDhnYi

— Kerala Startup Mission (@startup_mission) August 2, 2023

Fostering Innovation and Collaboration

LEAP Coworks aims to nurture a thriving environment that encourages innovation, networking, and the overall success of startups and entrepreneurs. This evolution underscores KSUM's comprehensive approach towards supporting and equipping startups with the necessary resources.

Mr. Anoop Ambika, CEO of KSUM, said in a release, "The rebranding to LEAP Coworks is a testament to our dedication to providing extensive support and resources to startups and entrepreneurs across Kerala." 

The revamped spaces will provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, meticulously designed workspaces, high-speed internet connectivity, and essential amenities vital for a conducive work environment.

Seamless Transition, Unwavering Support

As KSUM ventures into the realm of co-working spaces, it remains committed to extending valuable support services to startups. These services include mentorship programs, assistance in business development, access to funding opportunities, and expert guidance – all aimed at bolstering the growth trajectory of startups.

The LEAP Coworks community will serve as a hub for like-minded individuals and startups, fostering a collaborative atmosphere conducive to knowledge exchange and networking. An array of regular events, workshops, and networking sessions will further enhance these connections.

Flexible Pathways for Startup Growth

LEAP Coworks is set to offer flexible membership plans tailored to varying startup needs, including hot desks, dedicated desks, and private office spaces. These plans are designed to accommodate startups' scaling operations, ensuring a seamless and supportive environment.

Mr. Panjikaran elaborated, "Our goal is to provide startups with the tools they need to thrive. LEAP Coworks will become a singular access point for entrepreneurs to enter the startup ecosystem, granting them access to KSUM's wide array of offerings, including grants, seed loans, market access, mentor and investor connections."

LEAP Offers A World of Opportunities

The 'all-in-one' Membership Card ensures hassle-free premium space availability for startups across the country.

— Kerala Startup Mission (@startup_mission) August 2, 2023

The launch of the LEAP Coworks Membership Card opens a gateway to unparalleled possibilities for startups, professionals, angels, and venture capitalists. This exclusive card provides access to KSUM's premium facilities and a curated selection of benefits.

Startups with the LEAP Membership Card can avail subsidized access to all LEAP Coworks facilities, book Flexi Workstations, access partner incubation centers across the state, benefit from additional subsidies for KSUM partnering events, and enjoy amenities like talent acquisition support, cloud credits, uninterrupted internet, electricity, and internship drives.

As part of this transformative journey, KSUM's new headquarters at Technopark has been rebranded as LEAP Coworks Space – a testament to KSUM's commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and prosperity within the startup ecosystem. The LEAP Coworks initiative is poised to reshape the startup landscape in Kerala, propelling it to new heights of success and ingenuity.

https://leap.startupmission.in/