IKIGAI 2026 — National Hackathon in Indore with ₹1,03,000 Prize Pool — Frequently Asked Questions

It is a hackathon held at the national level by Acropolis Institute of Technology and Research, Indore. Teams form up, pick a problem, build a technology solution and compete for a shared prize pool of ₹1,03,000. The competition is spread across an online first round and an offline Grand Finale in Indore.

The total prize pool is ₹1,03,000, distributed among the top-performing teams. Winners and other high-ranking teams also receive certificates and recognition, along with networking opportunities with fellow participants and the industry experts involved in the event.

Registration closes on 1 August 2026. Teams should complete their entry on the official Unstop page before that date, since the shortlisting for the Grand Finale is based on Round 1 submissions.

Undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma students, as well as recent graduates from recognised institutions, can participate. Participants from every academic discipline are welcome — the hackathon is not limited to engineering or computer science students.

A team must have between 2 and 4 members, and at least one member must be female. A person can be part of only one team. Teams may be inter-college and inter-specialisation, so members do not need to be from the same institution or course.

There are six tracks to choose from: Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Agricultural Technology & Smart Farming, Sports Analytics using AI & Machine Learning, Web & Mobile Applications, and Emerging Technologies and Innovation. A team can pick whichever track fits its idea.

Neither. IKIGAI 2026 is a prize competition — teams compete for a cash prize pool of ₹1,03,000 and certificates. No equity or stake in participants' projects is involved.

No. The eligibility rules for this hackathon do not require DPIIT recognition or MSME registration. It is open to students and recent graduates from recognised institutions, with no startup-registration conditions attached.

Round 1 is an online idea submission. Teams provide their problem statement, the solution they propose, the technology stack they intend to work with, and an overview of the project. Industry experts then screen these submissions to decide who advances.

Applications are made through the official Unstop page for IKIGAI 2026, hosted by Acropolis Institute of Technology and Research, Indore. Registration must be completed by 1 August 2026 to be considered for the Grand Finale.

Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.