GeoHack 26
GeoHack 26 is a geospatial hackathon by IEEE GRSS Kolkata and IIIT Bhubaneswar, challenging teams to build AI-driven solutions for real-world problems using geospatial data, with prizes up to ₹17,000.
- Funding amount
- ₹17,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- IIIT Bhubaneswar (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (20 Jun 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
GeoHack 26, the Geospatial Hackathon 2026, is organized jointly by the IEEE GRSS Kolkata Chapter and IIIT Bhubaneswar as part of the International Workshop On Deep Learning And Artificial Intelligence (DLAI-10). It invites participants to develop AI-powered solutions integrating geospatial data for real-world challenges.
Themes & Problem Statements
- Crop Disease & Productivity Mapping
- Forest Fire Detection & Risk Mapping
- Smart Crop Advisory System for Small and Marginal Farmers
- Landslide Risk Mapping & Detection
- Smart Drought Prediction & Management
Technologies Expected Teams should leverage GIS, remote sensing, machine learning, deep learning, satellite imagery analysis, and Python/MATLAB geospatial libraries.
Evaluation Criteria Submissions are judged on innovation, practical feasibility, AI/ML implementation quality, geospatial data utilization, scalability, social impact, and presentation.
Competition Format & Timeline
- Round 1 (Screening): Submit a PPT by June 20, 2026. Results are announced on June 30, 2026.
- Final Round (Offline): Shortlisted teams participate in a 24-hour offline development round at IIIT Bhubaneswar on July 10, 2026, building prototype solutions presented to a jury.
Prizes
- Winner: ₹10,000
- Runners-up: ₹7,000
The hackathon seeks scalable, sustainable solutions combining AI with geospatial intelligence, emphasizing prototype-level innovation.
Highlights
- Up to ₹17,000 prize pool
- Open to teams of 1-3 members
- Geospatial AI solutions
- 24-hour offline development round
- Five real-world problem statements
- Part of IEEE & IIIT Bhubaneswar workshop
Who can apply
The competition is open to teams of 1 to 3 individuals who demonstrate innovative thinking in geospatial data analysis and machine learning. No specific DPIIT/MSME registration, founder requirements, or entity types are mandated. There are no industry, state, or stage restrictions. Students, professionals, and startups are welcome.
GeoHack 26 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 GeoHack 26 closed on 20 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Winner prize: ₹10,000
- Runners-up prize: ₹7,000 Total prize pool up to ₹17,000.
All prizes are monetary; no equity is taken.
About the provider
GeoHack 26 is offered by IIIT Bhubaneswar, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by IIIT Bhubaneswar 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
Round 1: Screening & Shortlisting – Teams submit a presentation (PPT) outlining their idea. The submission deadline is June 20, 2026. Evaluation focuses on innovation, feasibility, and geospatial relevance. Shortlisted teams are announced on June 30, 2026.
Final Round: Offline Development – Shortlisted teams attend a 24-hour coding and development round at IIIT Bhubaneswar on July 10, 2026. Teams build prototype solutions, which are then evaluated by a jury. Final ranking determines the winners.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to GeoHack 26, 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
GeoHack 26 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹17,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the prize money for GeoHack 26?
The winner receives ₹10,000 and the runners-up receive ₹7,000, making the total prize pool up to ₹17,000.
What is the deadline for Round 1 submission?
The deadline for Round 1 (PPT submission) is June 20, 2026.
Who can apply to GeoHack 26?
The competition is open to teams of 1 to 3 members from any background (students, professionals, startups) who are interested in geospatial data analysis and machine learning.
Does GeoHack 26 take any equity from participants?
No, prizes are cash awards; the hackathon does not take any equity from participants or winners.
What documents or materials are required to apply?
For Round 1, teams need to submit a presentation (PPT) detailing their proposed solution. No specific documents like DPIIT/MSME registration are required.
How many rounds are there in the competition?
There are two rounds: Round 1 is a screening submission of a PPT, and Round 2 is a 24-hour offline development round at IIIT Bhubaneswar for shortlisted teams.
What are the themes or problem statements for the hackathon?
The five themes are: Crop Disease & Productivity Mapping, Forest Fire Detection & Risk Mapping, Smart Crop Advisory System for Small and Marginal Farmers, Landslide Risk Mapping & Detection, and Smart Drought Prediction & Management.
Where and when is the final round held?
The final offline round takes place at IIIT Bhubaneswar on July 10, 2026, from the announcement of shortlisted teams on June 30, 2026.
How much funding does GeoHack 26 provide?
GeoHack 26 provides ₹17,000 (up to) as competition. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Is DPIIT recognition required for GeoHack 26?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for GeoHack 26, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers GeoHack 26?
GeoHack 26 is offered by IIIT Bhubaneswar, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for GeoHack 26?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to GeoHack 26
Not sure GeoHack 26 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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