Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators
A 30-hour national hackathon by Code for India across 6 cities, with prizes up to ₹18 lakh.
- Funding amount
- ₹18L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closes in 13d (14 Aug 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
Azaadi Hackathon 2026 is a 30-hour national hackathon organized by Code for India, scheduled for August 14–15, 2026. The event will be held simultaneously across 6 Indian cities, bringing together developers, designers, and innovators to tackle real-world challenges.
This hackathon is open to students, professionals, and startup teams from across India. Whether you're a seasoned coder or a first-time participant, all skill levels are welcome. No prior hackathon experience is required.
The competition runs for 30 hours, starting on August 14 and concluding on August 15. Participants can join from any of the 6 host cities. Teams will work on their projects, with judging and winners announced at the end of the event.
The total prize pool is ₹18,00,000, with the top prize being ₹1,50,000. Additional prizes for runners-up and special categories may be announced closer to the event. All rewards are cash prizes, making this a lucrative opportunity for innovators.
Code for India is a community-driven organization that hosts hackathons and coding events across India, with a mission to foster innovation and problem-solving through technology. Registration remains open until August 14, 2026, and applications are submitted through the official Internshala competition page.
Highlights
- 30-hour national hackathon by Code for India
- Held across 6 Indian cities simultaneously
- Total prize pool of ₹18 lakh
- Top prize of ₹1.5 lakh
- Open to all Indian participants – students, professionals, startups
- Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
Who can apply
Open to all Indian participants, including students, professionals, and startup teams. There are no team size restrictions—solo participants and teams are both welcome. No prior hackathon experience is required, making it accessible to all skill levels.
Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
Applications for Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators are open and the current deadline is Closes in 13d (14 Aug 2026). Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Total prize pool of ₹18,00,000, with the top prize at ₹1,50,000. Additional prizes for runners-up and special categories may be announced closer to the event. Winners receive cash prizes.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators, keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹18L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding/prize money is offered?
The total prize pool is ₹18,00,000. The top prize is ₹1,50,000, and additional prizes for runners-up and special categories may be announced closer to the event.
What is the application deadline?
Registration is open until August 14, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
The hackathon is open to all Indian participants, including students, professionals, and startup teams. There are no team size restrictions, and no prior hackathon experience is required.
Is there any equity taken?
No, prize money is awarded as cash prizes; no equity is taken.
What documents are typically needed to apply?
The provided information does not specify any particular documents. Typically, you would need to register through the official Internshala competition page with your details.
How and where do I apply?
You can apply via the official Internshala competition page linked on the program listing. Ensure you register before the August 14, 2026 deadline.
Do I need to be part of a team?
No, solo participation is allowed. There are no team size restrictions mentioned.
Where will the hackathon take place?
The hackathon will be conducted simultaneously across 6 cities in India. The specific cities are not listed in the provided details.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
How do I apply for Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators
Not sure Azaadi Hackathon 2026 – ₹18 Lakh Prize Pool for Indian Innovators is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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