New Delhi event brings together startups working across photonics, quantum technology, semiconductors, automation, and advanced measurement technologies.
HORIBA India brought 15 emerging tech startups together at the first edition of its Innovation Connect programme in New Delhi, giving companies working on specialized technologies a platform to present their ideas to industry experts. The startups were selected from nearly 100 registrations received from across India. Their technologies covered areas including sensors, flow control, spectroscopy, optics and photonics, quantum technology, deposition technology, automation, and lab-grown diamonds for semiconductor applications.
The initiative reflects the growing interaction between India’s startup ecosystem and established technology companies, particularly in sectors where research, specialized equipment, and industrial applications play a central role.
Startups assessed on technology and commercial potential.
The participating companies presented their technologies to a jury of experts from academia, the healthcare industry, and the scientific sector. The assessment considered factors such as technical readiness, originality, differentiation, pitch quality, commercialization potential and alignment with HORIBA’s areas of expertise.
CLUIX Private Limited received the Platinum Prize, along with a cash award of ₹2 lakh. NeosLab and Matterwave Technologies Pvt. Ltd. jointly received the Gold Prize, with each company awarded ₹1 lakh. Beyond the awards, the event focused on longer-term engagement. Selected startups are expected to receive technical guidance from HORIBA experts and may have opportunities to explore research and development or co-development initiatives.
Focus on deep-tech and industrial applications.
The programme comes as India’s deep-tech ecosystem continues to expand across areas such as semiconductors, photonics, quantum technology and advanced manufacturing. These sectors often require more than conventional startup funding, with access to technical expertise, testing capabilities and industrial networks playing an important role in moving technologies from development to commercial use.
For HORIBA India, Innovation Connect also provides a mechanism to identify technologies that could complement its work in measurement and analytical systems. Depending on the technology and business potential, the company may examine options including investment, licensing or acquisition. For participating ventures, such platforms can provide access to industry feedback at a stage when technical validation and commercial applicability are critical. For established technology companies, engaging directly with startups can offer visibility into emerging technologies and potential areas for future collaboration.
HORIBA India’s Innovation Connect therefore goes beyond a startup showcase, reflecting the increasing importance of industry-led engagement in India’s developing deep-tech and semiconductor ecosystem.
