InnovaHack Chapter 1

InnovaHack Chapter 1 is a national-level, outcome-driven hackathon organized by Elite Forums, designed to bring together India’s top developers, innovators, startups, and problem-solvers to build impactful technology solutions. The event serves as a platform for talent discovery, startup acceleration, and innovation showcase, connecting participants with industry experts, mentors, and potential hiring partners.

This hackathon is for individuals who want to create, solve, and stand out—whether you are a developer, designer, founder, builder, or innovator. From over 10,000 expected applicants nationwide, only the top 1% will be shortlisted for an elite 30-hour online hackathon experience.

Participants will work on real-world challenges across critical technology domains including Generative AI, FinTech, Cybersecurity, Blockchain, Open Innovation, and a Startup Innovation Track. The event features a rigorous selection process, extensive industry mentorship, networking opportunities, exposure to hiring partners, and access to the broader startup ecosystem.

The total prize pool includes ₹7,00,000 in cash prizes—₹2,50,000 for the winner, ₹2,00,000 for the first runner-up, ₹1,50,000 for the second runner-up, and ₹1,00,000 for startup ideas—along with funding opportunities up to ₹2 crore. Participants also receive AI credits: ₹9.3 lakh in credits for the top 3 Generative AI winners, ₹93,000 in Tavily AI credits for every participant, and ₹93,000 in Featherless AI credits for winners, plus inference access for all.

• Up to ₹7,00,000 cash prizes
• Up to ₹2 Crore startup funding
• Open to Indian developers & startups
• 30-hour online hackathon
• Industry mentorship & networking

Open to Indian developers, designers, founders, builders, and innovators. Participants must form teams of 2 to 4 members. The selection process is highly curated, targeting the top 1% of applicants nationwide.

InnovaHack Chapter 1 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

Applications for InnovaHack Chapter 1 are open and the current deadline is Closes in 5d (20 Jul 2026). Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.

• Cash prizes totaling ₹7,00,000 across winner (₹2,50,000), 1st runner-up (₹2,00,000), 2nd runner-up (₹1,50,000), and startup ideas (₹1,00,000).
• Funding opportunities up to ₹2 Crore for promising startup ideas.
• AI credits: ₹9.3 lakh for top 3 Generative AI winners, ₹93,000 Tavily AI credits for all participants, and ₹93,000 Featherless AI credits for winners.
• Extensive industry mentorship, networking opportunities, and exposure to hiring partners.

Registration closes on July 20, 2026. Interested participants must complete a mandatory task and join the WhatsApp and Discord communities for updates and selection for Round 1. The hackathon then shortlists the top 1% of applicants for an elite 30-hour online building and pitching experience. Participants collaborate, build innovative products, pitch their ideas, and compete in front of a distinguished panel of industry experts.

Before you apply to InnovaHack Chapter 1, 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.

InnovaHack Chapter 1 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹7L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.