The MoU enables joint development of AI, robotics, and next-generation technology pilots, helping GCCs access niche skills, accelerate research, and reduce time-to-market through research-driven innovation and startup collaboration.

HCLTech has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur to jointly convert cutting-edge research into real-world pilots and scalable solutions for Global Capability Centers (GCCs). The partnership aims to position HCLTech as a trusted GCC partner for research-led innovation in advanced engineering, AI, robotics, and other next-generation technologies.

By combining HCLTech’s comprehensive GCC solutions with IIT Kanpur’s research expertise and startup ecosystem, the collaboration allows GCCs to accelerate complex research, leverage specialised skills without building internal labs, and bring enterprise-ready solutions to market faster.

Bridging academic research and enterprise innovation

“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 codevelop innovative technologies with measurable impact,” said Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur.

Kiran Cherukuri, EVP and Global GCC Practice Head, HCLTech, added, “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 move from frontier research to pilots and enterprise-ready solutions at speed and scale, delivering quicker time-to-market and better customer experiences.”

Launch at GCC 4.0 Summit

The partnership was officially launched at the ‘GCC 4.0: Co-Creating India’s Innovation Powerhouse’ summit in Hyderabad, which brought together more than 250 leaders from India-based and global GCCs, IIT Kanpur, startups, and the broader technology ecosystem. The event highlighted the growing emphasis on research-driven innovation to strengthen India’s position as a global hub for advanced technology solutions.