SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation
24-hour hackathon with ₹1L prize pool, T-Hub ecosystem access, and MVP support.
- Funding amount
- ₹1L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- T-Hub (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (17 Apr 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 is a 24-hour in-person hackathon jointly organized by AIC T-Hub Foundation and Shetty Institute of Technology (SIT) in Kalaburagi, Karnataka. It aims to provide a launchpad for students and early-stage startup teams to develop technology solutions, pitch ideas to industry experts, and gain entry into T-Hub's renowned startup ecosystem.
Participants compete for a prize pool worth ₹1 lakh. The winning teams also receive access to T-Hub's prototyping labs, mentorship from industry experts, and MVP development support. The hackathon focuses on AI, robotics, and cross-sector technological innovation, with a special emphasis on bridging the gap between academic innovation and market-ready products.
Held at SIT Kalaburagi, the event is particularly accessible to founders and student teams based in tier-2 and tier-3 cities in Karnataka, offering them a pathway into India's leading incubator network without requiring travel to Bengaluru.
Highlights
- 24-hour in-person hackathon with a ₹1L prize pool
- Organized by AIC T-Hub Foundation and Shetty Institute of Technology
- Focus on AI, robotics, and cross-sector tech innovation
- Top 3 teams receive MVP support and T-Hub ecosystem access
- Accessible to founders and students from tier-2 and tier-3 cities in Karnataka
Who can apply
The hackathon is open to students and early-stage startup teams. All participants must attend the event in person at Shetty Institute of Technology, Kalaburagi, Karnataka. The hackathon encourages projects focused on AI, robotics, and cross-sector technology innovation. Specific team size requirements have not been publicly disclosed by the organizers.
SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation 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 SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation closed on 17 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- The total prize pool is ₹1 lakh.
- Top three teams receive prizes, MVP development support, and access to T-Hub's ecosystem.
- Winning teams also gain entry to T-Hub's prototyping labs and mentorship from industry experts.
- The hackathon serves as a gateway to T-Hub's broader startup support network.
About the provider
SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation is offered by T-Hub, a government body. As a government-backed competition, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation, 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
SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding or prize money is offered?
The total prize pool is ₹1 lakh, which will be distributed among the top teams. The exact split among winners has not been disclosed.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by April 17, 2026 through the T-Hub events portal.
Who is eligible to participate?
The hackathon is open to students and early-stage startup teams. All participants must attend in person at Shetty Institute of Technology, Kalaburagi, Karnataka.
Are there any sector or industry restrictions?
The hackathon particularly encourages projects focusing on AI, robotics, and other cross-sector technology innovations, but projects in any tech area may be considered.
What are the event dates?
The hackathon is a 24-hour sprint held on April 21–22, 2026.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a grant-based competition. The prize money and support do not require equity.
What documents are required to apply?
Specific document requirements have not been listed. Applicants need to register online through the T-Hub events portal and selected teams will be invited to build and present their solution.
How are teams selected for the hackathon?
Interested teams register online before the deadline. The organizers then select teams to participate in the 24-hour in-person hackathon, where they build and pitch their solution to a panel of experts.
Is the event only for students or can startup founders also apply?
The hackathon is open to both students and early-stage startup teams, so startup founders are welcome to apply.
Where is the event held?
The event takes place in person at Shetty Institute of Technology (SIT) in Kalaburagi, Karnataka.
Is DPIIT recognition required for SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation?
SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation is offered by T-Hub, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for SIT Innovators Hackathon 2026 by AIC T-Hub Foundation?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
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