Kozhikode, October 2, 2026: The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode) has launched DEEP LEAP, a new DeepTech incubation programme aimed at supporting high-potential technology startups across India.
The programme has been launched by IIMK LIVE, the institute’s entrepreneurship development centre and business incubator, in partnership with Walmart Global Tech, which is serving as the founding industry partner. The initiative is designed to bring together academic expertise, industry connections and startup support to help emerging technology ventures move towards scalable businesses.
1,500 Startups to Be Engaged
Under DEEP LEAP, around 1,500 startups from across India are expected to be engaged, with 50 startups eventually selected for a 12-month incubation and acceleration programme.
The initiative is primarily targeted at startups that have reached the prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage and are developing technology-driven solutions with significant market potential.
Focus on Emerging Technologies
The programme will focus on a range of DeepTech areas, including:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Quantum Computing and Technologies
- Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- SpaceTech
- Aerospace
- Semiconductors
- Photonics
- Internet of Things
- Cybersecurity
- Climate Tech and Clean Energy
IIMK LIVE’s official DEEP LEAP information also lists areas such as drones, autonomous systems and advanced electronics among the technology domains covered by the programme.
₹2.89 Crore Proposed Outlay
DEEP LEAP has a proposed outlay of ₹2.89 crore, including ₹1.5 crore earmarked for seed funding support for selected startups. The programme is intended to provide more than just financial assistance, with participants receiving structured mentoring, training and industry exposure.
According to IIMK LIVE, selected startups can receive funding support of up to ₹30 lakh in the programme, subject to the programme’s selection and funding provisions.
Mentorship and Industry Support
Participating startups will receive support in areas such as business strategy, product validation, go-to-market planning and investor readiness.
The programme also provides opportunities for founders to interact with industry professionals, investors and experienced mentors. IIMK LIVE says the programme includes structured training, expert mentorship, industry collaborations and investor access.
The initiative will culminate in a Demo Day, where participating startups will be able to showcase their technologies and business propositions to investors, industry leaders and other ecosystem stakeholders.
Strengthening India’s DeepTech Ecosystem
The launch comes as Indian startups increasingly expand beyond conventional software and consumer technology into areas requiring substantial research, engineering and technological development.
Through DEEP LEAP, IIM Kozhikode aims to strengthen the connections between academia, industry, entrepreneurs and investors, while helping promising DeepTech ventures progress from prototypes towards market-ready and scalable businesses.
The collaboration is also significant for Walmart Global Tech, with the partnership described as its first institutional collaboration in India specifically focused on DeepTech startups.
Key Highlights of DEEP LEAP
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | DEEP LEAP |
| Institution | IIM Kozhikode / IIMK LIVE |
| Industry Partner | Walmart Global Tech |
| Startups to be engaged | 1,500 |
| Selected startups | 50 |
| Programme duration | 12 months |
| Proposed outlay | ₹2.89 crore |
| Seed funding support | ₹1.5 crore |
| Startup stage | Prototype/MVP and beyond |
| Key areas | AI, Quantum, Robotics, SpaceTech, Semiconductors, Photonics and other DeepTech fields |
IIMK LIVE has stated that eligible startups must be registered Indian private limited companies with at least 51% Indian ownership, have a prototype or beyond, and have founders committed full-time to building the venture.
For more information about DEEP LEAP, eligibility and applications, candidates and startup founders can refer to the official IIMK LIVE programme page.
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