Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST
Online hackathon by Claude Builder Club @ UR-CST with $1,500 prize pool for social impact projects using AI/ML.
- Funding amount
- ₹1.4L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (20 Apr 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Build for Impact Hackathon is an online competition organized by the Claude Builder Club at the University of Rwanda's College of Science and Technology (UR-CST). It invites participants from around the world to create innovative solutions that address real-world challenges, with a strong emphasis on social good. The hackathon encourages the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to build projects that contribute to community welfare, sustainability, education, and other societal benefits. This is a fully remote event, allowing developers, designers, and entrepreneurs to collaborate, learn, and build impactful projects from anywhere.
The hackathon runs from April 14 to April 20, 2026, giving participants several days to develop their prototypes and submit their solutions. Submissions must be uploaded by the end of the event on April 20. A total prize pool of $1,500 (approximately ₹1.4 lakh) will be distributed among the winning teams, with specific allocation details announced by the organizers. The competition is open to individuals and teams globally, with no restrictions on team size, making it flexible for solo participants or groups.
To apply, participants must register through the official Devpost page before the deadline. The hackathon is especially suited for those passionate about leveraging technology for positive social change.
Highlights
- Online hackathon with a $1,500 prize pool (≈₹1.4 lakh).
- Theme: Social Good; especially encourages AI/ML solutions.
- Open to individuals and teams globally—no location or size restrictions.
- Runs from April 14 to April 20, 2026; registration ends April 20.
- Organized by the Claude Builder Club @ UR-CST.
- Apply via the official Devpost page.
Who can apply
The hackathon is open to students, developers, and innovators worldwide. There are no restrictions on geographic location, team size, or institutional affiliation. Individuals and teams of any size may participate. The event is particularly interested in projects that use AI/ML to address social good themes, but any impactful solution is welcome. No prior experience or registration with DPIIT or MSME is required.
Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST 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 Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST closed on 20 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Winning teams share a total prize pool of $1,500 cash (approximately ₹1.4 lakh). The exact distribution of prizes among winners will be announced by the organizers. In addition to cash prizes, participants gain recognition, networking opportunities, and the chance to showcase their work to a global audience.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST, 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
Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1.4L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the prize amount for the Build for Impact Hackathon?
The total prize pool is $1,500 (approximately ₹1.4 lakh). The exact distribution among winners will be announced by the organizers.
What is the deadline to apply?
Registration closes on April 20, 2026, which is also the last day of the hackathon. Submissions must be uploaded by the end of that day.
Who can participate?
The hackathon is open to everyone worldwide: students, developers, designers, entrepreneurs, and innovators. There are no restrictions on nationality, age, or team size. Individuals or teams of any size can take part.
Is there an entry fee?
No, participation is free. There is no mention of any registration or participation fee.
What kind of projects are expected?
Projects should address real-world challenges with a focus on social good. Solutions leveraging AI and machine learning are particularly encouraged, but any impactful idea is welcome.
Does the hackathon require DPIIT or MSME registration?
No, there is no requirement for DPIIT or MSME registration. This is an open competition for individual participants and teams.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a cash prize competition. Winners receive the prize money without any equity stake being taken by the organizers.
How do I apply?
You can apply by registering on the official Devpost page for this hackathon: https://cbc-ur.devpost.com/.
What is the format of the hackathon?
It is a fully online event running from April 14 to April 20, 2026. Participants work remotely on their projects and submit them by the deadline.
Are there any benefits besides the prize money?
Yes, winners receive cash prizes, and all participants gain experience, exposure, and the chance to network with other innovators. There is no mention of incubation or mentorship support.
How much funding does Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST provide?
Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST provides ₹1.4L (up to) as competition. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Who is eligible to apply for Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST?
Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Alternatives to Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST
Not sure Build for Impact — CBC Hackathon @ UR-CST is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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