How DeepTech Startups Are Powering India's Innovation Ecosystem?

In today's fast-evolving startup landscape, technology is no longer just an enabler—it’s the driving force behind disruptive ideas and game-changing solutions. As India cements its place as the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, a new frontier is taking center stage: deep technology. From AI and IoT to blockchain and cybersecurity, deeptech is not only redefining industries but also solving some of India's most pressing challenges.

To delve deeper into this transformative shift, TICE caught up with Naman Kothari, Head of Partnerships and Innovation at the MeitY-NASSCOM Centre of Excellence (CoE)—India’s flagship initiative fostering deeptech innovation.

In an engaging conversation, Naman shared insights on the evolving startup ecosystem, the critical role of partnerships, and how deeptech startups are poised to power India's next wave of growth.

Building a Robust DeepTech Ecosystem

Welcoming the discussion, Naman expressed his appreciation for TICE as "one of the fastest growing communities of startups and investors," and highlighted the importance of building platforms that connect entrepreneurs, corporates, investors, and policymakers.

According to him, while traditional tech startups have laid a strong foundation, it is deeptech startups—working on complex, IP-driven solutions—that will drive India’s global competitiveness. "Deeptech innovations address fundamental challenges across sectors like healthcare, agriculture, energy, and manufacturing. We need to invest more in nurturing these startups from a very early stage," he emphasized.

The Power of Strategic Partnerships

Kothari stressed that innovation cannot happen in isolation. Collaborations between startups, large enterprises, government agencies, and academia are essential to bridge gaps in resources, expertise, and market access.

At the MeitY-NASSCOM CoE, partnerships are at the core of the support structure. "We offer startups access to testbeds, mentorship from industry veterans, and opportunities to co-create with leading corporates. These partnerships fast-track the commercialization journey for deeptech solutions," he shared.

Challenges and Opportunities for DeepTech Startups

While India has witnessed a surge in deeptech ventures, Kothari pointed out that these startups often face unique challenges—such as longer product development cycles, higher capital requirements, and the need for specialized talent.

"Unlike traditional consumer-tech startups, deeptech ventures require sustained support in terms of R&D funding, access to labs, and pilots with industry partners," he noted. However, with growing interest from venture capitalists, government initiatives, and corporate accelerators, the landscape is rapidly becoming more favorable.

Looking Ahead: India's DeepTech Potential

As India marches toward becoming a global innovation hub, deeptech will be a critical pillar of its success. Initiatives like the MeitY-NASSCOM CoE are playing a pivotal role in building an environment where these startups can thrive.

Kothari concluded the conversation with an optimistic note: "If we continue to foster innovation through collaboration, India will not just participate in the deeptech revolution—we will lead it."