HCLTech, a leading global technology company, and the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly convert cutting-edge research into real-world pilots and scalable solutions for Global Capability Centers (GCCs).
The collaboration positions HCLTech as a trusted GCC partner for enabling research-led innovation, particularly in advanced engineering and deep tech, with a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, and next-generation technologies.
By combining HCLTech’s comprehensive GCC solutions with IIT Kanpur’s research and startup ecosystem, the partnership enables research-driven innovation that extends beyond traditional talent and service models. Through this initiative, GCCs will be able to accelerate complex research programs, access niche skills without the need to build internal laboratories, and reduce time-to-market.
“At IIT Kanpur, we have strong expertise and ongoing translational R&D in AI and intelligent systems, robotics, cybersecurity, and other next-generation technologies. Through this partnership with HCLTech, our researchers gain direct access to real-world challenges faced by global GCCs, complemented by access to research funding and industry mentorship. Translational research being a strategic priority, this MoU serves as a bridge between academic research and enterprises to co-develop innovative technologies with measurable impact,” said Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur here in a statement on Thursday.
“The next era of GCC growth will be shaped by how effectively they tap into world-class research and deep tech ecosystems. This MoU with IIT Kanpur positions HCLTech as a catalyst — bringing GCCs, academic excellence, research, and the startup ecosystem together — to help enterprises transition from research to pilots and enterprise-ready solutions at speed and scale, delivering quicker time-to-market and enhanced customer experiences,” said Kiran Cherukuri, EVP and Global GCC Practice Head, HCLTech.
The collaboration was formally launched at the ‘GCC 4.0: Co-Creating India’s Innovation Powerhouse’ summit in Hyderabad.
The event brought together over 250 leaders from India-based and global GCCs, IIT Kanpur, startups, and the broader technology ecosystem.