TechSparks 2026: More founders, tech leaders, global policymakers shaping the New Tech Order

IIM Kozhikode's business incubator, IIMK LIVE, has joined forces with Walmart Global Tech to launch DEEP LEAP, a new incubation program aimed at supporting promising deep tech ventures across India. This marks Walmart Global Tech's first formal partnership in India focused on deep tech, merging academic incubation resources with the global technology leader's network and capabilities.

Funded with a total of Rs 2.89 crore, sourced from Walmart's corporate social responsibility funds, DEEP LEAP will prioritize startups in high-impact fields like AI, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, autonomous systems, space technology, aerospace, semiconductors, and photonics. With an initial applicant pool of around 1,500 from across the country, a select 50 startups will be chosen for a 12-month program.

During this year-long term, participating founders will receive strategic business support, market entry guidance, product validation, investor readiness coaching, and an opportunity to showcase their technology during a dedicated Demo Day. Prof. Debashis Chatterjee, Director of IIM Kozhikode and Chairman of IIMK LIVE, highlighted that deeptech is not merely about enhanced software or hardware, but about solving critical challenges to drive meaningful impact.

By aligning the strengths of academia, industry, and entrepreneurship through DEEP LEAP, Chatterjee emphasized the program's potential to connect local innovators with global opportunities.

Rahul Ghosh, Group Director of Data Science at Walmart Global Tech, echoed similar sentiments, expressing the initiative's broader objectives. He noted that Walmart Global Tech is committed to serving communities through technological advancements. The partnership with IIM Kozhikode LIVE allows this vision to be realized, promising to advance cutting-edge technology and positively impact both local and global communities.