IBM, MeitY Startup Hub partner to support India’s deep

IBM and MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to support India’s deep-tech startup ecosystem through access to enterprise technologies, technical mentorship, skilling programmes and industry engagement.

Announced on 12 October 2026, the collaboration will combine MSH’s nationwide startup network with IBM’s expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), hybrid cloud and quantum computing. The initiative aims to help startups develop, validate and scale technologies for domestic and international markets.

The agreement also complements IBM Ventures’ existing engagements in India by creating additional opportunities for enterprise technology startups to connect with potential customers, investors and industry experts.

Under the MoU, startups will receive technical guidance and enablement across IBM’s enterprise technology portfolio, including IBM watsonx, its AI and data platform; IBM Bob, an AI coding agent for enterprises; and IBM Sovereign Core, a software stack designed for digital sovereignty.

The engagement will also cover IBM’s hybrid cloud, quantum computing, security and automation technologies. Startups will be able to explore these platforms to address business use cases and develop solutions for enterprise adoption.

IBM and MSH will jointly explore initiatives to support startups at different stages of growth across sectors, including banking and financial services, government and industry. Planned areas of collaboration include enterprise proof-of-concept projects, sovereign AI innovation, open-source ecosystem development, founder mentorship and technical skilling.

The partnership will also provide opportunities for startups to showcase their solutions to enterprises and investors. Identifying and supporting innovators from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities is another stated priority.

Dr Panneerselvam Madanagopal, CEO of MeitY Startup Hub, said the collaboration aims to strengthen indigenous deep-tech capabilities, encourage technology-led entrepreneurship and help innovators build solutions aligned with India’s development priorities.

Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India and South Asia, said the partnership would focus on helping founders accelerate innovation, scale responsibly and develop solutions addressing national and global challenges.

The MoU builds on IBM’s work with startups, developers, academic institutions and ecosystem partners in India. Through IBM Ventures, the company also supports enterprise technology startups through a capital-plus model that combines investment with access to IBM’s global network, technology expertise and ecosystem.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration, with the partners set to explore initiatives spanning technical enablement, enterprise engagement and startup development.