IIT Madras to launch AI studio to turn research into startups; opens to outside founders

The Wadhwani School of Data Science and AI (WSAI) at IIT Madras is set to launch AI Studio in the coming weeks. The venture-backed studio aims to assist researchers and entrepreneurs in transforming artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science research into viable companies. Applications will open on October 3, 2026.

The program will welcome IIT Madras and WSAI researchers, academic founders from other institutions, and external entrepreneurs with AI, ML, or data science concepts or existing ventures. The AI Studio will support chosen teams in developing their research or early-stage ideas into businesses, from validating product demand to securing funding and incorporation into the IIT Madras incubation ecosystem.

Applicants will commence with an initial training and bootcamp, followed by a selection process for the full AI Studio program. Successful ventures will undergo a six-month development and evaluation program, which may be extended by up to three months for those nearing an institutional funding round. Throughout the program, founders will gain access to seed funding, cloud and computing credits, research laboratories, data and resources, mentoring, and entrepreneurship training.

Also Read | IIT Madras, DU introduce mental health, well-being campaigns for students and parents. The AI Studio will run two cohorts annually, with application cycles in winter and spring. Founders will receive support from an Entrepreneur-in-Residence and faculty experts, as well as domain experts, to guide them through the stages of building a company.

AI Studio is part of IIT Madras' broader deep-tech incubation ecosystem, which has supported hundreds of deep-tech startups, collectively valued at $8 billion, and created over 11,000 direct jobs. The new venture studio specifically focuses on converting AI, ML, and data science research into startups, providing a structured pathway from early research ideas to product development, funding, and potential company formation.