Bharat Academix CodeQuest
A national-level online hackathon by Bharat Academix for Indian students, developers, and professionals, featuring a ₹2,60,000 cash prize pool and internship opportunities.
- Funding amount
- ₹2.6L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (16 Jun 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
Bharat Academix CodeQuest Hackathon 2026 is an online competition that invites Indian students, freshers, and professionals to build innovative solutions using emerging technologies. Organized by Bharat Academix, the hackathon aims to address real-world challenges across ten diverse tracks, including Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare, EdTech, Smart Cities, FinTech, Agriculture, Sustainability, Cybersecurity, Social Impact, and Open Innovation. Participants can join individually or in teams of up to three, with cross-disciplinary collaboration encouraged. The event runs in two rounds: an initial idea submission followed by prototype development for shortlisted teams. Finalists present to a panel of experts and compete for a cash prize pool of ₹2,60,000 along with internship and pre-placement opportunities.
Highlights
- ₹2,60,000 cash prize pool
- Open to students, freshers, and professionals
- Internship & pre-placement opportunities
- Teams of up to 3 members allowed
- National-level online hackathon
Who can apply
The hackathon is open to college students, freshers, and professionals from any academic background across India. You may participate individually or form a team of up to three members. You need a laptop and a stable internet connection to take part. No prior hackathon experience is required – the event is designed for all skill levels.
Bharat Academix CodeQuest 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
The most recent application window for Bharat Academix CodeQuest closed on 16 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Total cash prize pool of ₹2,60,000 distributed among the top five teams.
- First place wins ₹1,00,000; second and third places receive pre-placement opportunities.
- Fourth and fifth place winners get pre-placement internship opportunities.
- All participants receive participation certificates; winners and runners-up get special winner/runner-up certificates.
- Internship opportunities with Bharat Academix for outstanding performers.
- Networking with industry experts and the chance to showcase your project on official platforms.
- Career development opportunities and recognition on Bharat Academix channels.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
The hackathon follows a two-round format:
- Round 1: Idea Submission – Participants submit a problem statement, proposed solution, technology stack, expected impact, and project roadmap via a Google Form.
- Round 2: Prototype Development – Shortlisted teams develop a working prototype, submit source code and documentation, and create a presentation or demo video demonstrating feasibility and scalability.
- Grand Finale – Finalist teams present their solutions to an expert evaluation panel consisting of industry experts, researchers, and technology professionals. Judging criteria: Innovation & Creativity (25%), Technical Implementation (25%), Problem-Solving Approach (20%), User Experience & Design (15%), and Scalability & Impact (15%).
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Bharat Academix CodeQuest, 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
Bharat Academix CodeQuest is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹2.6L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered in Bharat Academix CodeQuest?
The total cash prize pool is ₹2,60,000, with the top prize being ₹1,00,000. Additional prizes include pre-placement opportunities and internships.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for submission is June 16, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
College students, freshers, and professionals from any academic discipline across India are eligible. You can apply individually or as a team of up to 3 members.
Do I need to be from a specific field or have prior hackathon experience?
No, participants from all academic backgrounds are welcome. Cross-disciplinary teams are encouraged. Prior hackathon experience is not required.
What themes can I work on?
The hackathon has 10 tracks: AI/ML, Healthcare Technology, Education Technology, Smart Cities, FinTech, Agriculture & Rural Development, Sustainability & Climate Tech, Cybersecurity, Social Impact & Accessibility, and Open Innovation.
What are the rounds of the hackathon?
There are two rounds: Round 1 is an idea submission, and Round 2 is a prototype development phase. Finalists then present at the Grand Finale.
What documents or deliverables are required?
In Round 1, you need to submit a problem statement, proposed solution, technology stack, expected impact, and project roadmap via a Google Form. In Round 2, you must submit source code, documentation, and a demo video.
How are solutions judged?
Judging criteria: Innovation & Creativity (25%), Technical Implementation (25%), Problem-Solving Approach (20%), User Experience & Design (15%), and Scalability & Impact (15%).
Is this a grant or equity funding?
This is a cash prize competition, not a grant or equity investment. There is no equity dilution.
How do I apply?
First, complete the mandatory Google Form available at the application link. Then proceed to Round 1: Idea Submission.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Bharat Academix CodeQuest?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Bharat Academix CodeQuest, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Alternatives to Bharat Academix CodeQuest
Not sure Bharat Academix CodeQuest is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.