Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated Bharat Innovates 2026 in Nice, France, on Sunday [1].
The event marks a strategic push to integrate Indian deep-tech capabilities into the global market. By aligning the two nations during the India-France Year of Innovation, the conclave seeks to foster investment partnerships, and cross-border technological collaboration [2].
The three-day showcase runs from June 14 to June 16, 2026 [3]. It features 120 Indian deep-tech startups [4] and contributions from more than 15 premier institutions [5]. This curated cohort represents a broad spectrum of high-end technology designed to position India as a hub for advanced engineering and digital solutions on the world stage [2].
Organizers designed the event as a bridge for startups to access European capital and expertise. The initiative follows previous roadshows in Paris aimed at attracting global investors to the Indian ecosystem [3].
Modi said that innovation is embedded in India's DNA. He said the goal is achieving "AI for all," suggesting that the advancements showcased in Nice should lead to inclusive growth and accessibility [2].
The collaboration between the two leaders underscores a shared interest in diversifying technology supply chains. By showcasing these startups in France, India aims to move beyond traditional service-based outsourcing and establish itself as a leader in original intellectual property, and deep-tech research [2].
“120 Indian deep-tech startups”
The launch of Bharat Innovates 2026 signals India's transition from a software services provider to a deep-tech exporter. By partnering with France, India is leveraging European diplomatic and economic channels to validate its startup ecosystem and attract high-value venture capital, shifting its global economic identity toward high-tech research and development.
