SmartAIthon 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about SmartAIthon 2026 — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
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.