Introduction
The global startup ecosystem is witnessing a remarkable surge in deep-tech ventures—startups that focus on deploying radical technological solutions to complex socio-economic challenges. Despite their significance, only a small fraction of these startups thrive beyond the initial stages, and even fewer manage to scale up. The role of strong research, robust innovation pipelines, and entrepreneurial culture in higher education institutions has never been more crucial. Recognizing this, a landmark international conference is set to take place in May 2026 at the JN TATA Auditorium, IISc Bangalore, India, focusing on the pivotal role entrepreneurial universities play in fostering deep-tech startups.
Conference Overview
- Title: Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Deep-Tech Startups: Role of Entrepreneurial Universities
- Dates: 20th to 22nd May 2026
- Venue: JN TATA Auditorium, IISc Bangalore, Karnataka, India
The conference is organized in collaboration with prominent Indian academic institutes and supported by Adelaide University, Australia. Partners include the Rajendra Mishra School of Engineering Entrepreneurship at IIT Kharagpur, Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship at IIT Bombay, and the Department of Management Studies at IIT Madras.
Conference Aims and Themes
The conference will explore how universities can:
- Encourage the emergence of entrepreneurial universities
- Promote research-driven innovation
- Support deep-tech startups at various stages of growth
Primary Platforms
- Start-Up Platform:
Dedicated to founders, venture capitalists, private equity investors, accelerators, incubators, co-working spaces, and heads of entrepreneurship cells from higher education. The platform aims to support startups through knowledge sharing and collaboration across the innovation ecosystem. - Researchers’ Platform:
Offers researchers—including faculty, research scholars, project assistants, and students—a space to discuss, present, and collaborate on the latest advancements in entrepreneurship and deep-tech innovation.
Key Conference Features
Conference Sessions
- Inaugural: 20 May 2026, 9:30–11:30 AM
- Valedictory: 22 May 2026, 4:30–6:00 PM
Broad Conference Tracks
- Entrepreneurial Universities
- Deep-Tech and Science Commercialization
- Financing Startups and MSMEs
- Technology Transfer and Commercialization
- Innovation Policy
- Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
- Social and Women Entrepreneurship
- Family Business, Returnee Entrepreneurship
- Science Communication, and more
Opportunities
- Abstract/paper submission
- Pitch deck/poster submissions
- Special invited sessions and networking opportunities
Who Should Attend?
- Start-Up Founders and Entrepreneurs
- Angels, VCs, Private Equities
- Incubators, Accelerators, and Co-working Space Managers
- Heads of Entrepreneurship Cells
- Faculty Members, Research Scholars, and Students
- Government Representatives and Policymakers
Advisory and Organizing Committees
The conference boasts an impressive panel of advisory members from India and across the globe, including distinguished academicians, innovation leaders, and entrepreneurship experts. Leadership includes:
- Chair: Padma Shri Dr. Prahlada Rama Rao (Former DRDO Scientist)
- International Advisors—from the University of Delaware, Asia Pacific University Malaysia, KMW Competence Center Germany, University of the Fraser Valley (Canada), and others.
- Indian Advisors—from IITs, IISc, and private research organizations.
Registration Details
Category | Early Bird (till 28 Feb 2026) | Regular Fee (till 30 Apr 2026) |
Students / Research Scholars / Startups | ₹ 4,000 | ₹ 6,000 |
Industry Delegates, VCs, Incubators | ₹ 6,000 | ₹ 8,000 |
International Delegates | $200 | $250 |
International Students | $100 | $150 |
Note: Full-time ID and MCA registration are required for certain categories.
Publication & Academic Impact
- Select papers will be fast-tracked for publication in reputed academic journals, including the JGJM—Journal of Global Marketing.
- An edited volume is planned to encapsulate significant conference contributions in partnership with international publishers.
Important Dates
- Abstract Submission Opens: 31 July 2025
- Submission Closes: 31 October 2025
- Intimation of Acceptance: 30 November 2025
- Full Paper/Camera-Ready Submission: 31 January 2026
- Conference Dates: 20–22 May 2026
How to Submit
Submissions are open to:
- Entrepreneurship researchers (papers/abstracts/posters)
- Academic institutions wishing to join as co-hosts
- Corporate sponsors and industry partners
For submission guidelines, participants can scan the QR code on the conference poster or contact the provided emails/phone numbers.
Why You Should Attend
This conference offers an exceptional opportunity to:
- Network with leading minds in innovation and entrepreneurship
- Explore trends shaping the future of deep-tech startups
- Gain insights into best practices from entrepreneurial universities
- Enhance your research and business prospects through knowledge exchange and collaboration
Whether you are a startup founder, a scholar, or an investor, the 2026 International Conference at IISc Bangalore promises deep insights, valuable connections, and a transformative experience that bridges research and real-world impact.
For More Information Contact:Â
Dr. Muthukumaraswamy D P K
muthukumaras@iisc.ac.in
+91-9845410902
Dr. Ganesaraman K
ganesaraman.ms.mc@msruas.ac.in
+91-984 5512416
Conference Link: https://iisc.ac.in/events/international-conference-at-j-n-tata-auditorium/