NextGenHacks
NextGenHacks is an online, open-ended hackathon welcoming global participants to build innovative solutions for social good, with a $1,000 cash prize.
- Funding amount
- ₹90,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (2 Jun 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
NextGenHacks is a fully virtual hackathon that invites participants worldwide to create tech solutions for social good. Organized by the NextGenHacks team, the event runs from April 21, 2026, to June 2, 2026, giving teams and individuals several weeks to develop their projects. The theme is open-ended but centered on Social Good, covering areas like education, health, environment, and community development. This beginner-friendly competition is designed for students, aspiring developers, and seasoned professionals alike. Participants can work alone or in teams to build, learn, and showcase their creativity. A cash prize of $1,000 is awarded to the top-performing project, with the aim of supporting further development. Registration and project submission take place via the official Devpost page.
Highlights
- $1,000 cash prize for social-good builds
- Beginner-friendly, runs Apr 21 - Jun 2, 2026
- Open-ended social impact theme
- Global participation – no location restrictions
- Fully online – join from anywhere
Who can apply
NextGenHacks is open to participants from all over the world, with no geographic restrictions. There are no specific age or skill level requirements, making it accessible to students, developers, designers, and innovators of all backgrounds. Both individuals and teams are welcome to apply. No prior experience or DPIIT/MSME registration is needed.
NextGenHacks 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 NextGenHacks closed on 2 Jun 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
The top-performing team or individual receives a $1,000 cash prize. This prize is intended to support the continued development of the winning project and recognize outstanding innovation. No other cash or non-cash prizes are mentioned.
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
The selection process consists of four stages: 1. Registration – Participants sign up via Devpost. 2. Project submission – Teams/individuals submit their completed project before the deadline. 3. Judging – Submissions are evaluated based on innovation, technical execution, impact, and presentation. 4. Decision – Winners are announced after judging concludes.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to NextGenHacks, 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
NextGenHacks is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹90,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding does NextGenHacks offer?
The top-performing team or individual receives a $1,000 cash prize.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to register and submit projects is June 2, 2026.
Who can apply for NextGenHacks?
The hackathon is open to participants globally, including students, developers, designers, and innovators of all skill levels. Both individuals and teams can apply.
Is there any specific theme or track?
The main theme is Social Good, but it is open-ended within that umbrella. Projects can address issues in education, health, environment, community development, and more.
Does the hackathon take equity or have any fees?
No, NextGenHacks is a competition that awards a cash prize. It does not take any equity or charge registration fees.
What documents are required to apply?
No specific documents are mentioned. Participants simply need to register and submit their project through the Devpost page.
How is the winner selected?
Submissions are judged on innovation, technical execution, impact, and presentation. The process includes registration, project submission, judging, and a decision stage.
Where can I apply?
Applications are accepted through the official Devpost page at https://nextgenhacks.devpost.com/
Is DPIIT recognition required for NextGenHacks?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for NextGenHacks, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
How do I apply for NextGenHacks?
Applications go through 4 stages, starting with Registration. Apply through the official application link on this page.
Alternatives to NextGenHacks
Not sure NextGenHacks 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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