IIM Kozhikode and Walmart Global Tech have joined hands to launch DEEP LEAP, a new incubation programme for deeptech startups in India. The initiative will be operated through IIM Kozhikode’s business incubator, IIMK LIVE.

The programme is designed for startups that are developing advanced technology and already have a prototype or minimum viable product. Its broader goal is to help these companies move from technical development to commercial use.

Deeptech businesses often require more time, research and testing than regular software startups. A company building a satellite sensor, industrial robot or medical device may need help with product validation, manufacturing, regulations and customer access. DEEP LEAP aims to provide support in these areas.

What is DEEP LEAP

DEEP LEAP is IIMK LIVE’s deeptech incubation programme, powered by Walmart. It brings together academic knowledge, business guidance and industry connections to help technology startups become scalable businesses.

The programme focuses on areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, autonomous systems, space technology, aerospace, semiconductors and photonics. These sectors can create important products, but founders often face high development costs and long sales cycles.

According to IIMK LIVE, the programme offers mentorship, structured training, industry collaboration, investor access, funding opportunities and support for business growth. Selected startups can receive funding of up to Rs. 30 lakh, subject to the programme’s terms and evaluation process as per IIMK LIVE site.

Role of IIM Kozhikode and Walmart Global Tech

IIM Kozhikode brings academic expertise, business knowledge and an established incubation environment through IIMK LIVE. It can help founders understand pricing, operations, customer discovery, financial planning and business strategy.

Walmart Global Tech adds an industry perspective. The company develops technology for Walmart’s retail, supply-chain and customer platforms, giving it experience in handling large-scale technology systems.

The partnership may help startups understand how their products can work in real business environments. For example, an AI company may receive guidance on improving its product for enterprise use. A robotics startup may get help in explaining its value to industrial customers. A supply-chain technology company may benefit from feedback on reliability, integration and scalability.

This is Walmart Global Tech’s first formal institutional partnership in India focused specifically on deeptech incubation, according to reports on the launch. The programme is supported by a total commitment of Rs. 2.89 crore, including Rs. 1.5 crore earmarked for equity or seed support for selected startups.

Who can benefit from the programme

DEEP LEAP is aimed at early-stage founders who have moved beyond only having an idea. A working prototype or minimum viable product can help the programme assess whether the technology has a practical use.

A startup developing an autonomous inspection robot, for example, may use the programme to test its product with industry partners, improve the design and prepare for investor discussions. A semiconductor or photonics startup may use mentorship to develop a clearer commercial plan while continuing its technical research.

The programme also plans to help startups become investor-ready. This can include improving their pitch, understanding business metrics, preparing for due diligence and presenting their progress during a Demo Day.

Why this initiative matters

India has a growing pool of engineers, researchers and technology founders. However, deeptech startups can struggle to find early support because their products often need more capital and development time than consumer apps or standard software services.

DEEP LEAP tries to address this gap by combining funding with practical guidance and industry access. The partnership also reflects a wider shift in India’s startup ecosystem towards AI, space technology, robotics, semiconductors and other high-value technology areas.

Conclusion with key takeaways

DEEP LEAP is intended to help Indian deeptech startups turn promising technology into useful, scalable products.

IIM Kozhikode will contribute incubation and business expertise, while Walmart Global Tech will bring industry knowledge and technology experience. Selected founders can receive mentorship, training, funding opportunities, investor access and support for market development.

The programme’s success will depend on how effectively it helps startups complete pilots, attract customers and raise follow-on capital. For deeptech founders, however, it offers an important combination of academic support and corporate guidance at an early stage.

Reference- Walmart Global Tech startup collaboration programme