Rentits Global Hackathon 2026
A global online hackathon by Rentits, powered by Meta, with a $45,000+ prize pool for student-life tools.
- Funding amount
- ₹40.5L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (29 Mar 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Rentits Global Hackathon 2026 is an online competition that brings together builders from around the world to create tools that improve student life. Powered by Meta and supported by partners including Netlify, BNY Mellon, ElevenLabs, GitHub Education, Coinbase, and MongoDB, the hackathon challenges participants to ship thoughtful prototypes and working demos that address real challenges in productivity, safety, community, and digital campus experiences. The emphasis is on genuine value over superficial concepts.
This hackathon is open to students, developers, and designers from any country. Participants can compete individually or form teams of 1 to 4 members. It is an ideal platform for those passionate about solving real-world problems for students and gaining exposure to leading tech companies.
The central theme is 'Student-life tools', with a focus on clarity, UX depth, and genuine value. Specific tracks include: Clarity – solutions that simplify complex information or processes for students; Systems – tools that improve organizational systems or workflows; Research-First – projects demonstrating strong user research and problem validation; Safety & Wellbeing – innovations promoting student safety, mental health, and overall wellbeing.
Registrations opened on January 5, 2026. Participants have until March 29, 2026, to submit their projects. Judging concludes on April 15, 2026, with winners announced shortly after. Bonus points are awarded for verified Rentits installs/signups and for including research receipts.
Highlights
- Global online hackathon by Rentits, powered by Meta.
- Prize pool over $45,000 in cash, cloud credits, and perks.
- Top teams win $5,000+ cash plus internship opportunities.
- Open to students, developers, and designers worldwide.
- Solo or teams of 1-4; no country restrictions.
- Tracks: Clarity, Systems, Research-First, Safety & Wellbeing.
Who can apply
The hackathon is open to students, developers, and designers globally. Participants can compete solo or in teams of 1 to 4 members. There are no country-specific restrictions, making it accessible to a diverse international talent pool.
Rentits Global Hackathon 2026 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 Rentits Global Hackathon 2026 closed on 29 Mar 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Prize pool of over $45,000 in cash, cloud credits, and various perks.
- Top teams win $5,000+ in cash.
- Opportunities for internships and collaborations with Rentits and its partners.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Registration is through the official Devfolio page. Participants submit their projects by March 29, 2026. Judging will take place from submission deadline until April 15, 2026. Winners are announced after the judging phase. Bonus points are given for verified Rentits installs/signups and including research receipts.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Rentits Global Hackathon 2026, 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
Rentits Global Hackathon 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹40.5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Rentits Global Hackathon 2026?
It is an online competition by Rentits, powered by Meta, challenging participants to build impactful student-life tools for a prize pool of over $45,000.
How much funding or prizes are offered?
The hackathon has a prize pool of over $45,000 in cash, cloud credits, and various perks. Top teams win $5,000+ in cash, plus internship and collaboration opportunities.
What is the application deadline?
Submissions must be made by March 29, 2026. Registrations opened on January 5, 2026.
Who is eligible to participate?
The hackathon is open to students, developers, and designers from any country. You can participate solo or in teams of 1 to 4 members.
Is there any sector or industry focus?
The central theme is student-life tools, with tracks including Clarity, Systems, Research-First, and Safety & Wellbeing. Any project that addresses student challenges is welcome.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not required. The hackathon is open to individuals and teams without any such registration.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a competition with cash prizes and perks. No equity is taken from participants.
What documents or materials are needed to apply?
You need to submit a project that includes a thoughtful prototype or working demo. Bonus points are given for verified Rentits installs/signups and including research receipts.
How do I apply?
Registration is free on the official Devfolio page at https://hackrent.devfolio.co/. For detailed information, visit the HackRent website.
When will winners be announced?
Judging concludes on April 15, 2026, and winners are announced shortly after that date.
Alternatives to Rentits Global Hackathon 2026
Not sure Rentits Global Hackathon 2026 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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