They will also gain a chance to explore new dimensions of next-gen technologies like Cloud, Cognitive, Analytics, IoT and Mobility, IAN said in a statement here. "IAN and its portfolio companies has been associated with IBM in the past and this partnership has helped nurture high growth startups. We believe this synergistic partnership will breed innovative technologies and grow global footprint companies from India," said Padmaja Ruparel, Co-founder, president IAN. IAN and IBM will work on various joint initiatives, to further technology innovation and offer mentorship and funding support to early stage startups, that will enhance their ability to scale business both in terms of technology and newer business engagements, it added. "IBM will engage, influence and mentor the early stage startup ecosystem and additionally nurture an IP led startup ecosystem focused on IOT, Artificial Intelligence, Security, Commerce etc and influence by design thinking," said Nipun Mehrotra, Vice President, Growth Initiatives, IBM India/ South Asia.