HackAIthon 2026
24-hour national-level AI hackathon in Sulya, Karnataka, with a ₹35,000 prize pool, focused on Data-Centric AI for students and developers.
- Funding amount
- ₹35,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Joy University (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (5 May 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
HackAIthon 2026 is a 24-hour national-level AI hackathon organized by Sphere Hive, KVG College of Engineering in collaboration with Startup Lab, Joy University. The competition challenges participants to improve model performance by focusing on data quality and curation rather than modifying the model architecture.
Participants will tackle an image classification challenge using the 3LC platform. The core task involves analyzing embeddings, strategically labeling data, and iteratively retraining models to achieve higher accuracy on a hidden test dataset. This event simulates real-world AI workflows, emphasizing data quality, experimentation, and iterative improvement.
Open to students and developers from any college, the hackathon recommends basic knowledge of Python and Machine Learning. Teams of 2 to 4 members (cross-college teams allowed) must bring their own laptops and chargers. Registration closes on May 5, 2026. Apply via the official event page on Unstop.
Highlights
- 24-hour national-level AI hackathon in Sulya, Karnataka.
- Focus on Data-Centric AI – improve model accuracy by curating data, not changing architecture.
- Cash prize pool of ₹35,000.
- Open to students and developers from all colleges; teams of 2–4 members.
- All participants receive certificates, free .xyz domain, swag, and goodies.
- Registration deadline: May 5, 2026.
Who can apply
Open to students and developers from all colleges. Basic knowledge of Python and Machine Learning is recommended. Participants must bring their own laptop and charger. Teams must consist of 2 to 4 members; cross-college teams are allowed.
HackAIthon 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 HackAIthon 2026 closed on 5 May 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Cash prizes totaling ₹35,000 (e.g., ₹15,000 for Winners).
- Certificates for all participants.
- Free .xyz domain, swag kits, and goodies.
- Networking opportunities with AI mentors and peers.
- Hands-on experience with Data-Centric AI tools.
About the provider
HackAIthon 2026 is offered by Joy University, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by Joy University as a competition. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to HackAIthon 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
HackAIthon 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹35,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much prize money is available?
The total cash prize pool is ₹35,000, with winners receiving ₹15,000.
What is the application deadline?
Registration closes on May 5, 2026.
Who is eligible to participate?
Students and developers from all colleges are eligible. Basic knowledge of Python and Machine Learning is recommended. You must bring your own laptop and charger.
Can I form a team with people from different colleges?
Yes, cross-college teams are permitted. Each team must have 2 to 4 members.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a competition with cash prizes, not an equity investment. No equity is taken.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not required.
What documents are needed for registration?
You only need to register via the official event page on Unstop. No additional documents are mentioned.
How do I apply?
Apply through the official Unstop event page linked on the StartupFunds.in listing.
What is the focus of the hackathon?
The hackathon is on Data-Centric AI – participants improve model accuracy by analyzing embeddings, strategically labeling data, and retraining models rather than modifying the architecture.
Are there any rules about datasets?
Yes: only the provided dataset may be used. No external datasets, pretrained weights, or model architecture changes are allowed. All work must be done during the 24-hour event.
Who offers HackAIthon 2026?
HackAIthon 2026 is offered by Joy University, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
Alternatives to HackAIthon 2026
Not sure HackAIthon 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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