Global Goals Hackathon 2026
A 12-hour innovation sprint at SRM University AP, challenging undergraduate students to develop tech solutions for UN Sustainable Development Goals, with a ₹20,000 prize pool.
- Funding amount
- ₹20,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- SRM University AP (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (24 Apr 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Global Goals Hackathon 2026 is an intensive 12-hour innovation sprint hosted by SRM University AP in collaboration with AIESEC. It challenges undergraduate students to develop technology-driven solutions addressing real-world problems aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants engage in a collaborative environment, leveraging their skills to create impactful solutions for social, environmental, and economic issues, while connecting with a global network of youth leaders.
The hackathon is open to all undergraduate students. Participants can register individually or form teams of 2 to 4 members. Basic knowledge of coding, design principles, or general problem-solving methodologies is preferred to maximize the experience.
Problem statements are directly derived from the UN SDGs, covering domains like climate action, quality education, sustainable cities, and more. The event runs for 12 continuous hours, from 10:00 PM on April 25th to 10:00 AM on April 26th. Teams conceptualize, design, and develop solutions, submitting a working prototype or demo along with a brief presentation. Solutions are judged on problem-solving, innovation, technical execution, UI/UX design, critical thinking, team collaboration, and presentation skills.
The total cash prize pool is ₹20,000. All participants receive certificates of participation and gain networking opportunities with the AIESEC global community.
Highlights
- Open to all undergraduate students, no specific major required.
- 12-hour sprint from 10 PM April 25 to 10 AM April 26.
- Problem statements directly from UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Cash prizes up to ₹20,000 for winning teams.
- Certificates for all participants and networking with AIESEC.
- Register individually or in teams of 1–4 members.
Who can apply
This hackathon is open to all undergraduate students. There are no restrictions on institution, discipline, or location. While not mandatory, participants with basic knowledge in coding (JavaScript, Python, C++), UI/UX design, or problem-solving will find it easier to contribute. Teams can consist of 1 to 4 members. All work must be original and created during the hackathon; pre-built projects or plagiarism will lead to disqualification.
Global Goals Hackathon 2026 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 Global Goals Hackathon 2026 closed on 24 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Cash prize pool of ₹20,000 awarded to the winning teams.
- Certificates of participation for all participants.
- Networking opportunities with the AIESEC global community and youth leaders.
- Exposure to real-world problem-solving through SDG-aligned themes.
About the provider
Global Goals Hackathon 2026 is offered by SRM University AP, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by SRM University AP 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
Teams submit a working prototype or demo along with a brief presentation (PPT/Pitch) by the deadline. Solutions are evaluated based on: problem-solving approach, innovation, technical execution, UI/UX design, critical thinking, team collaboration, and presentation skills. Winners are announced after the judging phase.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Global Goals Hackathon 2026, 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
Global Goals Hackathon 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹20,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Global Goals Hackathon 2026?
It is a 12-hour innovation sprint hosted by SRM University AP in collaboration with AIESEC, where undergraduate students develop tech solutions for UN Sustainable Development Goals.
How much funding or prizes are offered?
The total cash prize pool is ₹20,000. Additionally, all participants receive certificates of participation.
What is the application deadline?
Registration closes on April 24, 2026. Interested students should apply through the official Unstop platform before this date.
Who is eligible to participate?
All undergraduate students are eligible. Teams can have 1 to 4 members. Basic knowledge of coding, design, or problem-solving is preferred but not mandatory.
Do I need to be from a specific college or state?
No, the hackathon is open to all undergraduate students regardless of their institution or location.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not required for this hackathon.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a cash prize competition. No equity is taken from participants.
What documents are needed to apply?
Participants need to register through Unstop. No specific documents are mentioned beyond basic registration details.
How will solutions be judged?
Solutions are evaluated on problem-solving approach, innovation, technical execution, UI/UX design, critical thinking, team collaboration, and presentation skills.
When does the hackathon take place?
The 12-hour event starts at 10:00 PM on April 25, 2026 and ends at 10:00 AM on April 26, 2026.
Who offers Global Goals Hackathon 2026?
Global Goals Hackathon 2026 is offered by SRM University AP, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Global Goals Hackathon 2026?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Global Goals Hackathon 2026
Not sure Global Goals Hackathon 2026 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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