Code With Gemini — Global MLH Hackathon on Google's Gemini AI

Code With Gemini is a global, entirely remote hackathon hosted by Major League Hacking (MLH). The challenge is simple to state and open-ended to execute: build something new on top of Google's Gemini models. Rather than cramming everything into a weekend, the event gives participants a long build window that opens on 12 April and closes when submissions end on 3 June 2026.

Because nothing happens in a physical venue, geography stops mattering. Anyone with an internet connection and an idea can register, and the organisers draw no line between first-time hackers and seasoned generative-AI engineers — both groups compete under the same judging criteria.

StartupFunds.in lists this event because, while it is not a funding scheme in the conventional sense, it is a free route to credits, mentorship and public visibility for early builders. Indian students, indie developers and small teams can use it to earn a portfolio piece and a verifiable Devpost record without spending anything.

All logistics run through Devpost, which handles both sign-up and the final project submission.

• Global, fully online hackathon organised by Major League Hacking (MLH)
• Build window runs 12 April to 3 June 2026 — Devpost registration stays open until 3 June 2026
• Open to solo builders and teams of any size, at every skill level, worldwide
• No cash prize: 3 winners of Best Use of Gemini receive MLH swag and credits plus Devpost Achievements
• Judged on creativity, technical execution, Gemini API use, impact and presentation
• No DPIIT or MSME registration and no company formation needed to enter

Code With Gemini is open to individuals and teams located anywhere in the world. There are no country restrictions, so Indian developers, students and independent builders register on exactly the same terms as everyone else.

• Skill level: complete beginners, hobbyists, working professionals and experienced developers all qualify. No prior AI experience is expected.
• Status: you do not have to be enrolled at a university — students and non-students compete side by side.
• Team size: MLH sets no cap on how many people make up a team, so solo builders and large collaborative groups are both valid entries.
• Entity type: this is a hackathon, not a company funding programme, so there is no need to be a registered startup, private limited company or LLP.
• Registrations: DPIIT recognition and MSME/Udyam registration are not required.

The only practical expectation is that you can work with the Gemini API and get a finished project submitted before the deadline.

Code With Gemini — Global MLH Hackathon on Google's Gemini AI is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for Code With Gemini — Global MLH Hackathon on Google's Gemini AI closed on 3 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

No cash pool is attached to Code With Gemini, so there is no cheque or grant to collect at the end. What participants take away is recognition, resources and experience.

• Best Use of Gemini is the sole prize category, and it has 3 winners.
• Those winners receive swag and credits from MLH, plus Devpost Achievements added to their profile.
• Every participant gets hands-on time with Google's Gemini API — knowledge that carries straight into future products.
• Mentorship is offered through the MLH and Google developer communities.
• Finished projects are put in front of a global audience across those same communities.

Because the reward is non-monetary, the sensible way to treat this hackathon is as a skill and portfolio investment. The credits and the public Devpost track record are the parts that keep paying off after the event closes.

There is no screening round, shortlist or interview. Assessment happens once, after you submit.

• Register and build: participants sign up and develop their project across the window that opens on 12 April and closes on 3 June 2026.
• Submit: the finished project is entered through the official Devpost page before the deadline passes.
• Judging: entries are assessed on creativity, technical execution, how effectively the Gemini API is used, the impact of the solution, and the quality of the presentation.
• Award: the strongest use of Gemini is recognised, with 3 winners receiving MLH swag and credits along with Devpost Achievements.

Before you apply to Code With Gemini — Global MLH Hackathon on Google's Gemini AI, 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.