HCLTech has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur to drive cutting-edge research into real-world pilots and scalable solutions specifically for Global Capability Centers (GCCs). This collaboration focuses on advanced engineering, AI, robotics, and next-generation technologies. The partnership aims to help GCCs accelerate complex research, access niche skills, and reduce time-to-market by bridging academic expertise with industry challenges.
HCLTech and IIT Kanpur Forge Deep Tech Partnership
On February 26, 2026, HCLTech, a leading global technology company, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur. The primary goal of this joint effort is to convert advanced, cutting-edge research outcomes into practical, real-world pilot projects and scalable solutions tailored for Global Capability Centers (GCCs).
This collaboration strategically positions HCLTech as a key partner for research-led innovation within the GCC space, with a specific emphasis on advanced engineering, deep tech, AI, robotics, and next-generation technologies.
Benefits for Global Capability Centers (GCCs)
By merging HCLTech’s extensive GCC solutions with IIT Kanpur’s robust research and startup ecosystem, the partnership is designed to foster research-driven innovation that surpasses traditional service models. Key anticipated benefits for GCCs include:
- Accelerating complex research initiatives.
- Gaining access to niche skills without the need to establish internal labs.
- Significantly reducing time-to-market for new technologies and solutions.
Expert Commentary on Translational Research
Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration, stating that the MoU acts as a crucial bridge between academic work and enterprises. He noted that IIT Kanpur possesses strong expertise in AI, intelligent systems, robotics, and cybersecurity, and this partnership provides researchers with direct access to real-world challenges faced by global GCCs, supported by industry mentorship and research funding.
Kiran Cherukuri, EVP and Global GCC Practice Head at HCLTech, emphasized the transformative nature of the agreement: “The next era of GCC growth will be shaped by how effectively they tap into world-class research and deep tech ecosystems.” HCLTech aims to serve as a catalyst, connecting GCCs, academic research, and the startup ecosystem to expedite the transition from frontier research to enterprise-ready solutions.
Launch Context
The collaboration was officially launched during the ‘GCC 4.0: Co-Creating India’s Innovation Powerhouse’ summit held in Hyderabad. This event successfully convened over 250 leaders from India-based and global GCCs, IIT Kanpur representatives, startups, and the broader technology community.
About HCLTech
HCLTech is a global technology firm operating across 60 countries, employing more than 226,300 people. Its capabilities focus on AI, digital, engineering, cloud, and software services. The company reported consolidated revenues of $14.5 billion for the 12 months ending December 2025.
Source: BSE
