SmartAIthon 2026
A beginner-friendly online hackathon by IEEE KCE Student Branch CIS Chapter — ₹10,000 prize pool, open to all.
- Funding amount
- ₹10,000 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closes today
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
SmartAIthon 2026 is an online hackathon hosted by the IEEE KCE Student Branch CIS Chapter. The event focuses on AI, IoT, and social good themes, inviting participants to build innovative solutions that address real-world issues. It is designed to be beginner-friendly, so no previous hackathon experience is necessary. The competition runs from June 24 to July 15, 2026, with all work done remotely and projects submitted via Devpost. Participants can apply as individuals or in teams of any size.
Highlights
- ₹10,000 cash prize pool
- Open to all individuals and teams
- Beginner-friendly online hackathon
- AI, IoT, & Social Good themes
- No entry fee or prior experience required
- Project submission via Devspot
Who can apply
Open to everyone — individuals and teams of any size are welcome. The hackathon specially encourages beginners and early-career developers. There are no restrictions on location, institution, or prior experience.
SmartAIthon 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
Applications for SmartAIthon 2026 are open and the current deadline is Closes today. Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
A total cash prize pool of ₹10,000. Exact distribution among winners is not specified by the organisers.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Projects are judged based on innovation, technical implementation, and impact. The hackathon does not disclose a detailed stage-by-step selection process beyond the judging criteria.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to SmartAIthon 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
SmartAIthon 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10,000. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is SmartAIthon 2026?
It's an online hackathon organised by the IEEE KCE Student Branch CIS Chapter, focused on AI, IoT, and social good themes.
What is the total prize money?
The total cash prize pool is ₹10,000.
What is the deadline?
The hackathon runs from June 24 to July 15, 2026. Projects must be submitted by July 15, 2026.
Who can participate?
Anyone can participate — individuals or teams of any size. Beginners are especially welcome; no prior hackathon experience is needed.
What themes can I work on?
The hackathon focuses on three themes: AI, IoT, and social good. You can choose any of these or combine them.
Does the hackathon take equity or charge any fee?
No. SmartAIthon 2026 is a pure competition / hackathon. It does not take any equity and there is no entry fee.
How do I apply?
Register and submit your project via the Devpost page at https://smartaithon.devpost.com/.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
No, such registrations are not required. The hackathon is open to all.
How are projects judged?
Judging is based on innovation, technical implementation, and impact of the solution.
How much funding does SmartAIthon 2026 provide?
SmartAIthon 2026 provides ₹10,000 (up to) as competition. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Who is eligible to apply for SmartAIthon 2026?
SmartAIthon 2026 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Alternatives to SmartAIthon 2026
Not sure SmartAIthon 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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