CodeShield Hackathon 1.0
A national-level online cybersecurity hackathon organized by Sri Indu College of Engineering and Technology, challenging participants to build innovative defense tools with a ₹10,000 prize pool.
- Funding amount
- ₹10,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Sri Indu College of Engineering and Technology (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (25 Apr 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
CodeShield Hackathon 1.0 is a cybersecurity-focused competition run by Sri Indu College of Engineering and Technology, in partnership with Naksh Foundation under Project CyberShield. The event invites individuals and teams to design and build their own cybersecurity defense tools, targeting real-world problems. Participants are free to choose their own idea rather than working from predefined problem statements. Example project areas include password strength checkers, phishing detectors, vulnerability scanners, network monitors, malware detectors, and encryption tools. The hackathon is conducted entirely online across three phases: registration (due April 25, 2026), idea presentation (April 29 – May 1, 2026), and final presentation of a working MVP or prototype (May 8 & 10, 2026). A cash prize of ₹10,000 awaits the winning team, along with certificates and other recognition. This is a national-level event open to all interested in cybersecurity.
Highlights
- National-level online cybersecurity hackathon.
- Open to individuals and teams of 1–3 members.
- Participants propose their own cybersecurity defense tool ideas.
- Three phases: registration, idea presentation, and final MVP/prototype presentation.
- ₹10,000 cash prize for the winning team.
- Registration fee: ₹250 (solo), ₹350 (team of 2), ₹500 (team of 3).
Who can apply
Open to individuals and teams of 1 to 3 members. Participants from anywhere in India can apply. There are no restrictions on age, educational background, or professional status. No DPIIT or MSME registration is required. The competition is designed for students, professionals, and anyone passionate about cybersecurity.
CodeShield Hackathon 1.0 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 CodeShield Hackathon 1.0 closed on 25 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- ₹10,000 cash prize for the winning team.
- Certificates of participation for all participants.
- Opportunities for recognition and additional rewards as determined by the organizers.
About the provider
CodeShield Hackathon 1.0 is offered by Sri Indu College of Engineering and Technology, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by Sri Indu College of Engineering and Technology as a competition. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
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 is conducted in three phases. Phase 1 (Registration): Participants register and pay the applicable fee by April 25, 2026. Phase 2 (Idea Presentation): From April 29 to May 1, 2026, teams present their original cybersecurity defense tool idea. No predefined problem statements are provided. Phase 3 (Final Presentation): On May 8 and 10, 2026, teams present a working minimum viable product (MVP) or functional prototype. Evaluation is based on the quality and functionality of the MVP/prototype.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to CodeShield Hackathon 1.0, 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
CodeShield Hackathon 1.0 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the CodeShield Hackathon 1.0?
It is a national-level online cybersecurity hackathon organized by Sri Indu College of Engineering and Technology in collaboration with Naksh Foundation under Project CyberShield. Participants design and build their own cybersecurity defense tools.
How much funding or prize money is offered?
The winning team receives a cash prize of ₹10,000. There are also certificates for participation and opportunities for recognition and additional rewards.
What is the application deadline?
The registration deadline is April 25, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
Individuals and teams of 1 to 3 members from anywhere in India can apply. There are no restrictions on age, education, or profession. DPIIT or MSME registration is not required.
What is the theme or track of the hackathon?
Participants propose their own cybersecurity defense tool idea. Example areas include password strength checking, phishing detection, vulnerability scanning, network monitoring, malware detection, and encryption/data protection.
Does the program take equity or require repayment?
No. This is a competition with a cash prize. No equity is taken and no repayment is required.
What are the phases and key dates?
Phase 1: Registration by April 25, 2026. Phase 2: Idea Presentation from April 29 to May 1, 2026. Phase 3: Final Presentation (MVP/prototype) on May 8 and 10, 2026.
What is the registration fee?
₹250 for solo participation, ₹350 for a team of 2, and ₹500 for a team of 3.
How do I apply?
Register via the official event page on Unstop (link provided above) and pay the applicable fee by April 25, 2026.
Will I get a certificate?
Yes, all participants receive certificates of participation.
Is DPIIT recognition required for CodeShield Hackathon 1.0?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for CodeShield Hackathon 1.0, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers CodeShield Hackathon 1.0?
CodeShield Hackathon 1.0 is offered by Sri Indu College of Engineering and Technology, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to CodeShield Hackathon 1.0
Not sure CodeShield Hackathon 1.0 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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