IIT Madras Launches California Centre for Deep-Tech Startups

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras Global Research Foundation established its first United States centre in Menlo Park, California, on 6 May 2026. The centre became operational on 24 April 2026 and is located near Silicon Valley for startup incubation, technology commercialisation, and deep-tech research.

Menlo Park Centre and Its Functions

The Menlo Park centre serves as a hub for Indian deep-tech startups to connect with global markets, investors, and technology ecosystems. It also supports collaboration between educational institutions and industries for the translation of laboratory technologies into commercial products.

Investment and Organisational Structure

The project has a planned investment of USD 7.5 million. This includes a USD 4.5 million greenfield investment from IITM Global for startup incubation and deep-tech research. The centre was established in partnership with CA Startups and functions as a strategic anchor for IITM Global’s United States operations. IITM Global has also planned a second centre on the United States East Coast.

Indian Deep-Tech Startups Linked to IIT Madras

Indian Ambassador to the United States Vinay Mohan Kwatra met founders of five IIT Madras-incubated deep-tech startups on the sidelines of the SelectUSA Investment Summit. The startups were Atri AI, Zerowatt, Satori XR, Greenvironment, and ePlaneCompany.

Important Facts for Exams

• Menlo Park is located in California and lies close to Silicon Valley, a major global technology region in the United States.
• IIT Madras is one of the eight Indian Institutes of Technology established under the Institutes of Technology Act, 1961.
• Deep-tech refers to technology ventures based on advanced scientific or engineering innovation, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and clean technology.
• SelectUSA is a United States government programme that promotes foreign direct investment into the country.

IIT Madras Global Research Foundation is the overseas-facing research and innovation arm associated with IIT Madras. The centre in Menlo Park is the first United States centre announced by IITM Global.