Nvidia’s Strategic Expansion into India’s AI Startup Ecosystem
Nvidia, a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and graphics processing units (GPUs), is intensifying its engagement with India’s burgeoning AI startup landscape. This strategic initiative encompasses a series of partnerships and investments aimed at nurturing early-stage AI ventures and fortifying India’s position in the global AI arena.
Early-Stage Venture Collaborations
In a significant move, Nvidia has partnered with Activate, an early-stage venture firm, to support approximately 25 to 30 AI startups through Activate’s $75 million inaugural fund. This collaboration offers portfolio companies preferential access to Nvidia’s technical expertise, facilitating the development of innovative AI solutions. Activate’s approach involves engaging with technical teams months before company formation, providing guidance as they evolve into fully-fledged startups. This proactive strategy aligns with Nvidia’s objective to establish early relationships with promising AI enterprises, ensuring these companies are well-equipped with the necessary resources and support to thrive. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/19/nvidia-deepens-early-stage-push-into-indias-ai-startup-ecosystem/?utm_source=openai))
Partnerships with Venture Capital Firms
Beyond its alliance with Activate, Nvidia has expanded its network by collaborating with prominent venture capital firms such as Accel, Peak XV, Z47, Elevation Capital, and Nexus Venture Partners. These partnerships aim to identify and fund AI startups, providing them with the capital and expertise required to scale their operations. By aligning with these venture firms, Nvidia is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s AI innovation, ensuring that emerging companies have access to cutting-edge technology and mentorship. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/19/nvidia-deepens-early-stage-push-into-indias-ai-startup-ecosystem/?utm_source=openai))
Engagement with AI Grants India
Nvidia has also joined forces with AI Grants India, a nonprofit organization co-founded by Vaibhav Domkundwar and Bhasker (Bosky) Kode. This collaboration aims to support over 10,000 early-stage founders over the next 12 months, providing them with resources, mentorship, and technical guidance. By investing in the foundational stages of AI development, Nvidia is fostering a robust ecosystem that encourages innovation and accelerates the growth of AI startups in India. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/19/nvidia-deepens-early-stage-push-into-indias-ai-startup-ecosystem/?utm_source=openai))
Participation in the India Deep Tech Alliance
In November 2025, Nvidia became a founding member and strategic advisor of the India Deep Tech Alliance (IDTA), a coalition of U.S. and Indian investors committed to supporting India’s deep-tech startups. The alliance has secured over $850 million in new capital commitments, aiming to bridge the funding gap in sectors such as space, semiconductors, AI, and robotics. Nvidia’s role involves providing technical direction, training, and policy input, empowering emerging companies to adopt and thrive with advanced computing tools and AI technologies. ([business-standard.com](https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/nvidia-india-investment-deep-tech-alliance-ai-startups-850-million-funding-125110500279_1.html?utm_source=openai))
Strengthening Data Infrastructure
Recognizing the critical role of robust data infrastructure in AI development, Nvidia has partnered with data center operators Yotta Data Services and AI cloud firm E2E Networks Ltd. These collaborations involve equipping data centers with Nvidia’s latest Blackwell Ultra GPUs, enhancing India’s high-performance computing capabilities. Yotta is constructing a facility designed to house over 20,000 Blackwell chips, supported by an investment exceeding $2 billion. E2E Networks is leveraging these advanced processors to roll out new AI services in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro Ltd.’s data center arm. These initiatives are pivotal in providing the computational power necessary for AI startups to develop and deploy sophisticated AI models. ([whalesbook.com](https://www.whalesbook.com/news/English/Tech/Nvidia-Deepens-India-AI-Push-with-VC-Data-Center-Alliances/6995822bd25eafd9cdfd46a2?utm_source=openai))
Impact on India’s AI Ecosystem
Nvidia’s comprehensive strategy to engage with India’s AI startups at various stages of their development underscores the company’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement. By providing early-stage support, technical expertise, and robust infrastructure, Nvidia is not only cultivating a new generation of AI enterprises but also solidifying its position as a key player in India’s rapidly evolving AI landscape. This multifaceted approach is expected to accelerate the growth of AI startups, enhance India’s global competitiveness in AI, and contribute to the broader goal of digital transformation.
