Founded in 2000 SIIC has incubated 15 startups so far, of which 5 have already graduated. SIIC incubates ventures in technology, engineering & all interdisciplinary areas. The incubatee firms of SIIC have created employment for 94 individuals and have generated revenues exceeding Rs 67 million.

SIIC is associated by Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, one of the premier institutions established by the Government of India. The Institute has its own sprawling residential campus, about 2255 undergraduate and 1476 postgraduate students, 309 faculty and more than 900 supporting staff. With path-breaking innovations in both its curriculum and research, the Institute is rapidly gaining a legendary reputation. The residential campus is planned and landscaped with a hope for environmental freedom. Halls of residence, faculty and staff houses and community buildings surround the central academic area to provide flexibility in movement and communication.

IIT Kanpur has set up the SIDBI Innovation & Incubation Centre (SIIC) in collaboration with Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) to foster innovation, research, and entrepreneurial activities in technology-based areas. SIIC provides a platform to start-ups, prospective entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs to convert their innovative ideas into commercially viable products.  6 incubatee companies of SIIC have received SEED fund support of total amount Rs. 91.26 Lacs. Regular events like entrepreneurial talk series, workshops and seminars have offered SIIC a good interface and visibility in the region.