Next Byte Hacks V2
An online, beginner-friendly hackathon by Next Bytes with a $100 prize pool, open to all skill levels.
- Funding amount
- ₹9,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (31 May 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
Next Byte Hacks V2 is a month-long online hackathon organized by Next Bytes, designed to foster innovation and project development across all experience levels. The competition is open-ended, allowing participants to build and showcase any idea. It is intentionally beginner-friendly and accommodates low-code or no-code solutions, making it accessible to everyone from seasoned developers to complete beginners.
The hackathon runs entirely online from May 1st to May 31st, 2026. Participants have the full month to develop their projects remotely. The event uses Devpost for registration and submissions. After the submission deadline, a judging period determines the winners.
The winning project receives a cash prize of $100 (approximately ₹9,000).
Registration is open until May 31, 2026, via the official Devpost page. Participants can apply individually or in teams.
Highlights
- $100 cash prize (approx ₹9,000) for the winning project
- Month-long online build: May 1–31, 2026
- Beginner-friendly and low/no-code welcome
- Open to all skill levels globally
- Submit via Devpost – free registration
Who can apply
Open to individuals and teams of all skill levels, including beginners, globally. There are no specific country restrictions, industry focus, or entity type requirements. The hackathon is designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants from any background.
Next Byte Hacks V2 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 Next Byte Hacks V2 closed on 31 May 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
The winning project receives a $100 cash prize (approximately ₹9,000). No equity is taken. This is a pure prize award for the top submission.
How to apply
- 1Registration
- 2Project submission
- 3Judging
- 4Decision
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applications are assessed through a structured process:
- Registration: Participants sign up via the Devpost page.
- Project submission: Teams or individuals submit their completed project by the end of the hackathon.
- Judging: Submissions are evaluated by a panel based on criteria such as innovation, execution, and impact.
- Decision: The winner is announced after the judging period.
Exact judging criteria and timeline are not specified, but the process is designed to be fair and transparent.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Next Byte Hacks V2, 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
Next Byte Hacks V2 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹9,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered?
The winning project receives a $100 cash prize, which is approximately ₹9,000.
What is the application deadline?
Registration is open until May 31, 2026, but the hackathon runs from May 1 to May 31, so you should register and submit your project by the end of the event.
Who is eligible to apply?
The hackathon is open to individuals and teams of all skill levels, including complete beginners. There are no geographic restrictions – participants from anywhere in the world can join.
Are there any sector or industry restrictions?
No, the hackathon is open-ended, so you can work on any type of project idea. There are no restrictions on industry or domain.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not required. The hackathon is open to anyone, regardless of business registration status.
Does taking the prize involve giving up equity?
No, the $100 prize is a pure cash award. No equity is taken from participants.
What documents are needed to apply?
No specific documents are required beyond registration on Devpost. You will need to submit your project details and possibly a demo or description as part of the submission.
How and where do I apply?
You can apply by visiting the official Devpost page for Next Byte Hacks V2 at https://next-byte-hacks-v2.devpost.com/. Registration is free and open until May 31, 2026.
Can I participate as a team?
Yes, both individuals and teams are welcome. The hackathon is open to all formats.
How do I apply for Next Byte Hacks V2?
Applications go through 4 stages, starting with Registration. Apply through the official application link on this page.
Alternatives to Next Byte Hacks V2
Not sure Next Byte Hacks V2 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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