Five IIT Madras-incubated deep-tech startups showcased at SelectUSA are engaging with US customers and investors, with one startup securing its first five customers within two weeks and weighing US incorporation and fundraising.

The foundation aims to expand internationally to about 15 centres over five years, starting with five centers in the United States, Dubai, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

A US-based deep-tech hub is launching in Menlo Park as part of IIT Madras Global Research Foundation’s push to connect Indian deep-tech startups with global capital, markets, and mentorship, aligned with broader US-India tech collaboration efforts like iCET and TRUST.

The center plans a total investment of USD 7.5 million, including USD 4.5 million in greenfield funding from IITM Global, with a second center planned along the US East Coast to broaden presence across key innovation corridors.

The rollout prioritizes five centers initially, with operational US activity already underway, Malaysia beginning activities, and groundwork in other locations, using market-specific strategies rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

The foundation’s remit covers deep-tech startups, research and consultancy, intellectual property, and advanced skilling programs, aiming to generate more than one patent per day and scale global commercialization via overseas centers.

The global deep-tech venture market is projected to reach over $714 billion by 2031, with investors seeking strong fundamentals, while events like SelectUSA Summit help connect with U.S. investors.

Risks include a highly competitive Silicon Valley funding environment favoring established players, potential funding gaps for non-AI/deep-tech areas, and relatively lower patent activity among Indian unicorns, along with challenges in commercialization, sustaining investment, and partnerships amid geopolitical tensions.

Additional risks involve intense competition for talent and funding, selective VC focus on AI/defense tech possibly sidelining other deep-tech areas, and the need to strengthen patent activity in India’s deep-tech ecosystem.

The article includes a disclaimer about investment advice and potential AI-generated content with caveats on accuracy.

This move aligns with U.S.-India collaboration frameworks like iCET and TRUST, targeting foundational technologies such as AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors.

Challenges for the foundation include bridging academia and commerce, sustaining investment, and building partnerships amid shifting geopolitical and policy landscapes.