Kerala Tourism Launches ‘Workpods’ to Attract Techies and Entrepreneurs
Published in Newsletter Issue No. 376 - December 2024
Kerala Tourism, in collaboration with Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), has introduced an innovative ‘workcation’ concept through its ‘workpods’ initiative. Designed for IT professionals and entrepreneurs, these workpods aim to provide fully-equipped, remote working spaces amidst Kerala’s serene natural beauty. This initiative blends productivity with the tranquillity of God’s Own Country, redefining traditional tourism experiences.
The workpods will serve as hubs for remote working, innovation and brainstorming while acting as a ‘test bed’ to attract tech investments and foster an ecosystem of startups. The KSUM CEO Shri Anoop P. Ambika emphasized that the project seeks to diversify Kerala’s tourism offerings by introducing unique experiences beyond traditional vacationing.
The first workpods will be piloted in Varkala, a popular destination for tech professionals. Wayanad is also being considered as a potential location for the initiative. The pods will be equipped with all necessary amenities for remote working, offering a blend of comfort and functionality. According to the KSUM technical officer Shri Varun G., this concept aligns with the rising trend of remote working and staycations, which gained traction during the pandemic.
The tourism department plans to provide the required space for the pods, while startups will be invited to develop and implement the infrastructure. Expressions of interest will soon be floated, encouraging startups to propose innovative designs for the pods. Officials aim to finalize plans in the coming weeks, laying the groundwork for a new era of work-and-travel tourism in Kerala.