Maharashtra Unveils Innovation City Near Mumbai, Secures $96B in Davos Deals

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced plans for a world-class Innovation City near Mumbai at the Davos summit, revealing Tata Sons has committed $11 billion to the project. In a massive investment coup, the state secured $96 billion through 10 MoUs on the first day of WEF 2026, which are expected to create nearly a million jobs. The Innovation City is designed as a "Plug and Play" ecosystem to foster startups and attract global innovation. Fadnavis also emphasized the state's sustainable vision, targeting 52% renewable energy and a circular economy for Mumbai.

Key Points: Maharashtra's $96B Davos Haul & New Innovation City Plan

  • $96B in MoUs signed at Davos 2026
  • Tata commits $11B for Innovation City
  • Plan for "Plug and Play" startup ecosystem
  • Aims for 52% renewable energy grid
  • MoUs to generate 9.6 lakh jobs
3 min read

Global investors eye Maharashtra as CM Fadnavis unveils plans for new Innovation City

CM Devendra Fadnavis announces a new Innovation City near Mumbai, backed by Tata, and reveals $96 billion in investment MoUs signed at Davos 2026.

"The historic USD 96 billion in investments... is a reflection to the global investors' unwavering faith in Maharashtra's potential. - Devendra Fadnavis"

Davos, January 22

Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday informed global investors that the state is ready to host a world-class innovation ecosystem near Mumbai. Speaking before nearly 450 international delegates, the Chief Minister said the project has already sparked serious interest in investing in this city.

Reflecting on the international response, Fadnavis said, "Today, we made a significant announcement. Last year in Davos, our theme was AI and the Innovation Ecosystem, which inspired us to propose creating an innovation city in Maharashtra. I discussed this idea with the chairman of TATA Sons and sought his support. I am delighted that, nearly a year later, we have officially announced this innovation city in Davos before 400-450 international investors. The city will bring global innovation ecosystems to Mumbai, India."

He also told Tata Sons has committed $11 billion to develop the Innovation City. "We have just identified the location and sketched one of its details, which we can now refer to as the contour. The plan is to take the next six to eight months before we begin", Fadnavis added.

Meanwhile, Devendra Fadnavis explained that the Tata Group investment in the project aims to provide a "Plug and Play" ecosystem specifically designed to support the start-up community.Emphasising the state's commitment to the International Solar Alliance, Fadnavis stated that Maharashtra is transitioning its energy grid to ensure 52 per cent of its total power is supplied by renewable sources. Additionally, he outlined a comprehensive vision for a circular economy in Mumbai, focusing on sustainable urban development to transform the city into a greener financial capital.

Reflecting on the journey of the project, Fadnavis said, "Got inspired from last years davos meeting for Maharashtra as an innovation city and we are proud we addressed it this year in Davos 26."

On the other hand, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) achieved a historic milestone at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Summit 2026 in Davos, securing investment commitments worth USD 96 billion (Rs 8.73 lakh crore) on the very first day through the signing of 10 major Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

The landmark agreements are expected to generate approximately 9.6 lakh direct and indirect jobs, positioning the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) as the talent capital of India and Asia. The MoUs were signed in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, representing the authority.

Speaking on the exchange of these MoUs at Davos 2026, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, "The historic USD 96 billion in investments secured on the very first day of WEF 2026 is a reflection to the global investors' unwavering faith in Maharashtra's potential. These 10 MoUs are not just financial agreements; they are the blueprints for 'Mumbai 3.0' and the key to accelerating our march towards the USD 1 trillion economy milestone."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
$96 billion in one day is mind-blowing! But my humble request to the government: please ensure the development doesn't repeat the mistakes of other cities. We need sustainable growth with proper public transport and affordable housing for the workforce.
R
Rohit P
Great vision, but execution is key. We've seen many 'world-class' projects announced that get delayed for years. Hope the 6-8 month timeline is realistic. The focus on renewable energy is a very good step though.
S
Sarah B
As an expat working in Mumbai's startup scene, this is exactly the kind of infrastructure we need. A 'Plug and Play' ecosystem can reduce so many initial hurdles for founders. Looking forward to seeing the details!
V
Vikram M
Tata Group's $11 billion commitment shows serious intent. They have a good track record. Hope this innovation city attracts global talent and companies, making us less dependent on foreign tech hubs. Jai Maharashtra!
K
Kavya N
Generating 9.6 lakh jobs is promising, but will they be for locals too, or will it lead to more migration putting pressure on Mumbai? Also, "circular economy" and greener Mumbai sound excellent. Need more such eco-friendly plans.
M
Michael C
Impressive to see India making such bold moves on the global

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