HackNexus'26
A national-level online hackathon for Indian college students — ₹70,000 prize pool, three rounds, real-world problem statements.
- Funding amount
- ₹70,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closes today
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
HackNexus'26 is a national-level online hackathon organized by Droidecks, aimed at bringing together innovative college students from across India to tackle real-world challenges using technology. The entire event is conducted online, enabling participants to learn, build, and compete from anywhere during their semester break. The hackathon features three competitive rounds: Round 1 involves submitting a project abstract and presentation (8–9 slides) covering the problem statement, proposed solution, technical approach, system architecture, expected impact, and business model. Evaluation criteria include problem understanding, innovation, technical feasibility, impact potential, and presentation quality. In Round 2 (Build Phase), shortlisted teams develop their solution and submit a source code repository, working deployment/demo link, a 4–5 minute demo video, project documentation, and an impact statement. Evaluation focuses on technical implementation, functionality, innovation, user experience, scalability, real-world impact, and documentation quality. Round 3 consists of a live final jury presentation and Q&A via Google Meet or Zoom, where top teams present with a live demo. Judges assess depth of technical knowledge, solution effectiveness, problem-solving approach, innovation, presentation skills, and impact and future scope. The total cash prize pool is ₹70,000, distributed among winning teams. All participants receive recognition from industry and academic experts.
Highlights
- ₹70,000 cash prize pool
- For Indian college students
- Online hackathon
- Teams of 1-4 members
Who can apply
Open to all college and university students across India. Participants can register individually or as a team of 2–4 members. Interdisciplinary teams are encouraged. Individual registrations are allowed, and teams can be formed later.
HackNexus'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
Applications for HackNexus'26 are open and the current deadline is Closes today. Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
- A total cash prize pool of ₹70,000 will be distributed among winning teams.
- All participants will receive recognition from industry and academic experts.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to HackNexus'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
HackNexus'26 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹70,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total prize pool for HackNexus'26?
The total cash prize pool is ₹70,000, which will be distributed among the winning teams.
Who can apply for HackNexus'26?
The hackathon is open to all college and university students across India. There is no restriction on field of study.
Can I participate individually or do I need a team?
You can register either individually or as part of a team of 2–4 members. If you register individually, you can form a team later.
What is the application deadline?
The registration deadline is 15 July 2026. Round 1 submissions open on 10 July 2026 and close on 20 July 2026.
Is there a registration fee?
Yes, there is a registration fee of ₹49 per member.
What is the format of the hackathon?
The hackathon consists of three rounds: Round 1 (PPT & Abstract Submission), Round 2 (Build Phase), and Round 3 (Final Jury Presentation & Q&A). All rounds are conducted online.
What should I submit in Round 1?
In Round 1, you need to submit a project abstract and a presentation of maximum 8–9 slides covering the problem statement, proposed solution, technical approach, system architecture, expected impact, and business model.
What are the evaluation criteria for Round 2?
Round 2 evaluation is based on technical implementation, functionality, innovation, user experience, scalability, real-world impact, and documentation quality.
How do I apply for HackNexus'26?
You can apply via the Google Form link provided on the official page. The link is https://forms.gle/JWYh9JBu1kBfRBzbA.
Are there any tracks or themes?
Yes, problem statements will be provided by the organizers across various domains. Participants choose one problem statement to work on throughout the competition.
How much funding does HackNexus'26 provide?
HackNexus'26 provides ₹70,000 (up to) as competition. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Does HackNexus'26 take equity?
No. HackNexus'26 is competition and is non-dilutive — the provider does not take an equity stake in your startup.
Is DPIIT recognition required for HackNexus'26?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for HackNexus'26, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Alternatives to HackNexus'26
Not sure HackNexus'26 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
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