
DEEP LEAP

About DeepLeap
DEEP LEAP is IIMK LIVE's flagship deep-tech incubation program, powered by Walmart , dedicated to accelerating the next generation of technology-driven startups. Designed for ambitious innovators building cutting-edge solutions, the program offers a comprehensive incubation experience that combines world-class mentorship, strategic industry connections, investor access, funding opportunities, capacity-building, and business growth support.
By bringing together academia, industry, and innovation, DEEP LEAP empowers entrepreneurs to transform breakthrough ideas into scalable, market-ready ventures. The program reflects IIMK LIVE's commitment to nurturing high-impact technology entrepreneurship and strengthening India's deep-tech innovation ecosystem through meaningful partnerships and sustained support.
Supporting Partner



What We Offer
01
15hrs of Mentorship
02
30 hrs Training
03
Industry Collabrotions
04
Funding upto 30 Lakhs
05
Demo day with 15 to 20 Investors


Eligibility
Deeptech Domains
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML)
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Internet of Things (IoT)
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Robotics & Automation
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Blockchain​​
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SpaceTech
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Quantum Technologies
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Cybersecurity
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Climate Tech & Clean Energy
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Drones & Autonomous Systems
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Semiconductors & Advanced Electronics
Criteria
Startups building
deep-tech solutions.​
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Must be a registered Indian Private Limited Company with at least 51% Indian ownership.​
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Startup should have a Prototype or beyond.
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Founders must demonstrate full-time commitment to building the venture.​
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Learn From The Best
Meet Your Mentors
Industry veterans and academic experts committed to your success
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Mr. Murali Darapureddy
VC,Vice Chairman at fusionAIx

Mr. Kaustubh Patekar
Founder of ProdZen

Mr. Ganesh Chandrasekaran
​Deep-Tech Expert | Samsung R&D Institute Bangalore

Mr. Chandu Nair
Angel Investor| Chennai Angels | IIMA

Mr. Ashutosh Vikram
Venture Builder, Cofounder Ninjacart

Mr. Raman Nanda
Business & Leadership Coach

Dr. Krishnankutty P
​Chairman, Hydro Panel, NRB, DRDO, Govt. of India

Mr. Raj Chilakapati
Principal Architect, Microsoft | Startup Mentor | Former AWS Technology Leader

Mr. Sumeet Agrawal
Investment Banker | SKA Finance Advisors |IIM Indore Alumnus

Ms. Sheeba D'Mello
Alumnus- IIMK |
Principal- Axilor Ventures

Mr. Subramanian Chandramouli
CEO & Chief Trainer, Sales Specialist, Author & Visiting Faculty

Mr. Nayan Bheda
​Investor, MSME expertise, Business Growth,

Mr. Subramanian Mahesh
Marine Engineer |Anglo-Eastern, ESG and Carbon Services

Mr. Ajay Rungta
Solopreneur | Startup Operator turned Advisor | | Angel Investor

Ms. Neetu V Bansal
Corporate Sales Trainer |International Speaker & Author |

Mr. P K Gopalakrishnan
Angel Investor |Malabar Angel Network|
IIMB

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Â
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What is LIVE?
LIVE is an Entrepreneurship Development Centre and Business Incubator at the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode. This is established by IIM Kozhikode and is supported by Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
How does LIVE support entrepreneurship?
LIVE is envisioned as a Business Incubator with a purpose of creating a National Centre of Excellence that promotes innovation, new business venturing and entrepreneurship. Apart from Incubation Program for Start-ups, it seeks to carry out activities that promote entrepreneurship on IIMK campus and among greater community, conduct training and research in the domain of entrepreneurship, foster idea generation through competitive events, extend pre-incubation support to shape ideas, conduct accelerator/ cohort-based programs and other assistance to entrepreneurs that can help their ideas turn into successful enterprises.
What is the Deep Leap Program?
Deep Leap is an intensive startup incubation program designed to support promising deep-tech startups in transforming innovative ideas into scalable ventures. The program focuses on startups in the Prototype or MVP stage and provides structured training, expert mentorship, and investor access.
Who is eligible to apply for Deep Leap?
The program is open to deep-tech startups working on innovative solutions across sectors such as AI, robotics, healthcare, climate tech, mobility, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and other emerging technologies.
Eligible startups should:
•Be in the Prototype or MVP stage
•Have a working product, prototype, or proof of concept
•Have a committed founding team
•Be focused on building scalable technology-driven solutions
What stages of startups does the program support?
Deep Leap is specifically designed for startups in the:
•Prototype stage
•Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage
What does the program offers
Selected startups will receive:
•Structured training sessions
•One-on-one mentorship from industry experts
•Business strategy and go-to-market guidance
•Product validation support
•Investor readiness training
•Networking opportunities
•Demo Day with investors and ecosystem partners
What kind of training is included?
The training modules typically cover:
•Business model development
•Product-market fit
•Customer discovery
•Fundraising strategy
•Financial planning
•Pitch deck preparation
•Market entry strategy
•Legal and compliance basics
How does mentorship work?
Each startup will have access to mentors from industry, academia, and the startup ecosystem. Mentors provide personalized guidance on technology, business growth, strategy, and fundraising.
Is the program online or offline?
The program format may include online, offline, or hybrid sessions depending on the schedule and program design. Detailed information will be shared with selected startups.
Is there any fee to participate?
No. There is no fee to participate in the program.
How are startups selected?
Applications are evaluated based on:
•Innovation and uniqueness of technology
•Market potential
•Scalability
•Team strength
•Problem-solution fit
•Readiness for acceleration Shortlisted startups will be called for selection round.
What is Demo Day?
Demo Day is the final showcase event where selected startups present their solutions to investors, industry leaders, corporate partners, and ecosystem enablers.
Will startups get funding through the program?
Yes, a few selected startups receive funding support of up to ₹30 lakhs.
What are the expected outcomes of the program?
By the end of the program, startups are expected to:
•Refine their product and business model
•Strengthen market readiness
•Improve investor preparedness
•Build strategic connections
•Accelerate growth
What is the duration of the program?
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The duration of the program is one year.
How can I apply?
You can apply through the IIMK LIVE website. Visit the DeepTech Leap page, click on the "Apply Now" button, complete the application form, and submit it online.
Who should I contact for queries?
For any questions regarding the program, applicants may contact the program team through the official communication channels.