Noida/Kanpur, February 26, 2026: 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.

“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 Mr. 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.

About HCLTech

HCLTech is a global technology company with over 226,300 employees across 60 countries. The company delivers industry-leading capabilities centered around AI, digital, engineering, cloud, and software, supported by a broad portfolio of technology services and products.

HCLTech serves clients across major industry verticals, including Financial Services, Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Healthcare, High Tech, Semiconductor, Telecom and Media, Retail and CPG, Mobility, and Public Services. Consolidated revenues for the 12 months ending December 2025 totaled $14.5 billion.

To learn more, visit: www.hcltech.com

About IIT Kanpur

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, is recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India. Renowned for excellence in science, engineering, and interdisciplinary education, IIT Kanpur spans a 1,050-acre lush green campus and comprises 20 departments, 27 centres, three interdisciplinary programmes, and three specialized schools. With over 570 faculty members and more than 9,500 students, the institute continues to lead in innovation, research, and holistic development.

For more information, please visit: www.iitk.ac.in.