Hack[AI]thon 2.0 — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Hack[AI]thon 2.0 — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding / cash prize is offered?
The total cash prize pool is ₹35,000. There are no grants, loans, or equity investments; this is a competition with cash prizes.
What is the application deadline?
The registration deadline is 30 June 2026. Applications must be submitted via the official Unstop page before this date.
Who is eligible to apply?
Hack[AI]Thon 2.0 is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from any recognised institution in India. You do not need to be an AI/ML expert, but some familiarity with AI concepts is helpful.
Can I participate individually or do I need a team?
Participation is team-based. Each team must have 2 to 4 members. Inter-college and inter-disciplinary teams are allowed, so you can form a team with students from different institutions or fields.
What documents are required to apply?
You must have a valid college ID handy for verification. No other documents like DPIIT or MSME registration are needed, since the competition is for students, not for businesses.
Does the program take equity in my project?
No. This is a pure hackathon with cash prizes — no equity, stake, or revenue share is claimed by the organisers.
Where will the offline finale be held?
The 24-hour offline Grand Finale will take place at VRIF VTU Belagavi (in Belagavi, Karnataka) on 8–9 August 2026.
What are the two rounds of the hackathon?
Round 1 is an online selection that you complete from anywhere. Round 2 is the offline, 24-hour grand finale at VRIF VTU Belagavi where you work on a real-world AI challenge focused on image classification and dataset improvement.
How and where should I apply?
All applications must be submitted through the official Unstop event page. The link is provided in the Hack[AI]Thon 2.0 description on StartupFunds.in.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Hack[AI]thon 2.0?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Hack[AI]thon 2.0, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
How do I apply for Hack[AI]thon 2.0?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.