Moonshot Hackathon
A global online hackathon by Aethra with a ₹31.18 lakh prize pool — open to all, beginner-friendly, and focused on AI/ML and open-ended innovation.
- Funding amount
- ₹30.2L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (30 Jun 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Moonshot Hackathon is an online, open-ended innovation challenge organised by Aethra. With a total prize pool of ₹31.18 lakh, this hackathon invites participants from around the world to build creative solutions using machine learning and AI — or any open-ended approach they choose.
The hackathon is beginner-friendly and open to all skill levels — students, developers, designers, and entrepreneurs can participate. Solo participants and teams are welcome.
The event runs from June 3 to June 30, 2026, entirely online. Participants can work at their own pace within the submission window. Submissions are accepted via the official Devpost page, where registrations are open until the deadline of June 30, 2026.
Highlights
- Global online hackathon with a total prize pool of ₹31.18 lakh.
- Open to all skill levels: students, developers, designers, and entrepreneurs.
- Focus on AI/ML and open-ended innovation.
- Runs online from June 3 to June 30, 2026.
- Solo participants and teams are both welcome.
- Apply via the official Devpost page.
Who can apply
Open to participants globally. No geographic restrictions mentioned — Indian teams and individuals are welcome. The hackathon is beginner-friendly and welcomes all skill levels. Solo participants and teams are allowed.
Moonshot Hackathon 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 Moonshot Hackathon closed on 30 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Total prize pool of ₹31.18 lakh. Exact distribution by rank is not specified; the amount label indicates winnings up to ₹30.2 lakh (likely the top prize). Participation is free, but no other specific benefits are detailed.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Moonshot Hackathon, 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
Moonshot Hackathon is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹30.2L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible to participate in the Moonshot Hackathon?
The hackathon is open to participants globally, with no geographic restrictions. It is beginner-friendly and welcomes individuals of all skill levels, including students, developers, designers, and entrepreneurs. Solo participants and teams are both allowed.
What is the total prize pool for the Moonshot Hackathon?
The total prize pool is ₹31.18 lakh, with the top prize likely up to ₹30.2 lakh as indicated by the amount label. The exact distribution by rank is not specified.
When does the Moonshot Hackathon take place?
The hackathon runs online from June 3 to June 30, 2026. Participants can work at their own pace within the submission window.
How do I apply for the Moonshot Hackathon?
You must register via the official Devpost page at the provided link. Submission is online, and the deadline is June 30, 2026.
What are the main themes or focus areas of the hackathon?
The hackathon focuses on AI/ML and open-ended innovation. Participants are encouraged to build creative solutions using machine learning and AI, or take an open-ended approach.
Is there an entry fee to participate?
The provided data does not mention any entry fee. Based on typical hackathon formats, participation is likely free, but this is not explicitly confirmed.
Can Indian teams participate in the Moonshot Hackathon?
Yes, Indian teams and individuals are welcome since there are no geographic restrictions.
What documents or items do I need to submit?
The specifics of submission requirements are not detailed. Typically, hackathons require a project description, source code, and a working demo on the Devpost platform. Please check the official Devpost page for exact requirements.
Does the hackathon take equity or require any ownership?
This is a hackathon with a cash prize pool, so no equity is taken from participants. It operates as a competition, not an investment program.
What if I have no prior experience with hackathons?
The hackathon is described as beginner-friendly, meaning it is designed to be accessible to newcomers. All skill levels are welcome.
How much funding does Moonshot Hackathon provide?
Moonshot Hackathon provides ₹30.2L (up to) as competition. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
What is the application deadline for Moonshot Hackathon?
The application deadline for Moonshot Hackathon is Closed (30 Jun 2026). Deadlines can be revised, so reconfirm on the official source before applying.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Moonshot Hackathon?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Moonshot Hackathon, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Alternatives to Moonshot Hackathon
Not sure Moonshot Hackathon 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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