Nvidia joins $850 million India deep tech alliance to boost AI innovation

The alliance, backed by Indian and U.S. investors, aims to bridge the funding gap for startups in AI, semiconductors, space, and robotics, with Nvidia offering technical guidance and strategic expertise

Nvidia has joined a consortium of Indian and U.S. investors backing the India Deep Tech Alliance, which has secured over $850 million in capital commitments to support the country’s deep-tech startup ecosystem. New investors, including Qualcomm Ventures, Activate AI, InfoEdge Ventures, Chiratae Ventures, and Kalaari Capital, have joined the alliance, launched in September with an initial commitment of $1 billion.

Boosting India’s deep-tech ambitions

The India Deep Tech Alliance seeks to close the funding gap faced by research-driven startups in critical technology sectors such as space, semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics. As a founding member and strategic advisor, Nvidia will contribute its technical expertise, provide training, and guide policy development to help Indian startups integrate AI and advanced computing into their innovations.

The move comes amid India’s broader national push toward technological self-reliance. The government recently announced a $12 billion initiative to boost research and development, underscoring the country’s intent to transition from a service-based economy to a manufacturing and innovation-led powerhouse.

While deep-tech funding in India rose 78% to $1.6 billion in 2024, it still represented just one-fifth of total startup investments, highlighting a persistent shortfall. Founders and analysts have long cited deep-tech ventures’ lengthy development cycles and uncertain commercial timelines as key challenges to attracting venture capital.

Collaboration and long-term commitment

Celesta Capital’s founding managing partner, Sriram Viswanathan, noted that India’s deep-tech landscape is at an inflection point, driven by growing government support and investor interest. Celesta Capital—an early backer of startups like Agnikul Cosmos and IdeaForge—was among the alliance’s founding members, alongside Accel, Blume Ventures, Gaja Capital, and Premji Invest.

The alliance’s members plan to deploy their own capital over the next five to ten years while offering mentorship and access to global networks. Rather than pooling funds, members operate independently but share a common goal: to strengthen India’s deep-tech capabilities and foster innovation in core technologies that underpin future economic and strategic growth.