#include 1.0
A multi-round technology innovation hackathon for Indian students, with ₹30,000+ cash prizes and AWS mentorship.
- Funding amount
- ₹30,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (20 Jun 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
#include 1.0 is a technology innovation hackathon organised by the AWS Student Builder Group (AWS SBG) at SMVEC, Puducherry. The event challenges undergraduate and postgraduate students to build impactful solutions using Cloud Computing, AI/ML, Data Analytics, and emerging technologies, addressing real-world industry and societal problems.
Open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students from any college or university, regardless of department or specialization. Inter-specialization teams are encouraged. Participants can choose from five tracks aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well Being (SDG-3), Quality Education (SDG-4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG-11), Zero Hunger and Sustainable Agriculture (SDG-2), and Open Innovation (any problem of the team's choice).
The competition is conducted in three rounds: Idea Submission, Prototype Development, and Final Presentation & Demo. Judging criteria include Innovation & Creativity, Technical Implementation, Feasibility & Scalability, User Experience, Business/Social Impact, and Presentation.
Highlights
- ₹30,000 cash prize + additional prizes
- For Indian college & university students
- Teams of 3–4 members
- AWS mentorship & networking opportunities
- e-Certificates for all participants
Who can apply
Open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students from any Indian college or university. Teams of 3–4 members are required. All submissions must be original; plagiarism leads to disqualification. No restriction on department or specialization—inter-specialization teams are encouraged.
#include 1.0 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 #include 1.0 closed on 20 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Winners receive a ₹30,000 cash prize (additional prize pool details to be revealed soon).
- All participants receive e-certificates.
- Networking opportunities with industry experts.
- Mentorship from AWS Community Leaders and professionals.
- Recognition through AWS SBG community channels.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
The competition is conducted in three rounds:
- Idea Submission – Teams submit a problem statement and proposed solution.
- Prototype Development – Shortlisted teams build a working prototype using AWS services and other approved technologies.
- Final Presentation & Demo – Teams present their solution before a judging panel. Judging criteria include Innovation & Creativity, Technical Implementation, Feasibility & Scalability, User Experience, Business/Social Impact, and Presentation.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to #include 1.0, 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
#include 1.0 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹30,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is #include 1.0?
It is a technology innovation hackathon organised by the AWS Student Builder Group (AWS SBG) at SMVEC, Puducherry. Participants build solutions using Cloud Computing, AI/ML, Data Analytics, and emerging technologies.
How much funding is offered?
Winners receive a ₹30,000 cash prize. Additional prize pool details will be revealed soon.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is June 20, 2026. Register before this date via the official Unstop page.
Who is eligible to apply?
All undergraduate and postgraduate students from any Indian college or university are eligible. Teams must consist of 3–4 members. No restrictions on department or specialization.
What themes or tracks can I choose from?
There are five tracks aligned with UN SDGs: Good Health and Well Being, Quality Education, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Zero Hunger and Sustainable Agriculture, and Open Innovation (your own problem).
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a competition with cash prizes. No equity is taken.
What documents are needed to apply?
You need to submit a problem statement and proposed solution during the Idea Submission round. Specific document requirements are detailed on the Unstop page.
How do I apply?
Register on Unstop before the deadline at the official link provided on the #include 1.0 page.
What do participants receive?
All participants receive e-certificates. Winners get a ₹30,000 cash prize. Additionally, there are networking opportunities and mentorship from AWS professionals.
What are the judging criteria?
Submissions are judged on Innovation & Creativity, Technical Implementation, Feasibility & Scalability, User Experience, Business/Social Impact, and Presentation.
Is DPIIT recognition required for #include 1.0?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for #include 1.0, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Alternatives to #include 1.0
Not sure #include 1.0 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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