StepOne AI Engine Buildathon — ₹1 Lakh Prize Hackathon by Reskilll — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about StepOne AI Engine Buildathon — ₹1 Lakh Prize Hackathon by Reskilll — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is the StepOne AI Engine Buildathon?
It is a national-level online hackathon organised by Reskilll. The challenge is narrow on purpose: participants build AI engines aimed at marketing automation — systems that automate marketing processes, improve customer engagement, or optimise how campaigns perform. It is a competition rather than a funding or incubation programme.
How much funding or prize money is offered?
The prize pool is worth ₹1 Lakh. Take note that this is prize money awarded through a competition, not a grant or investment, and there is no entry fee to take part.
What is the application deadline?
2 May 2026. That date is the cut-off for both registration and project submission, so your prototype must be in by then.
Who is eligible to participate?
Indian citizens and residents with a strong background in AI/ML development. The event is pitched at individual developers, data scientists, AI and machine-learning enthusiasts, and engineering students who can conceptualise, design and implement a functional AI solution. There is no restriction by state, industry or company type.
Can I enter as an individual, or do I need a team?
Both routes are open. No specific team size has been specified, so you can work alone or collaborate with others. What matters is the quality of the AI engine you deliver.
Do I need DPIIT recognition or MSME registration?
No. Those registrations are relevant to government startup schemes, not to this buildathon. Participation here does not require DPIIT recognition, MSME registration, or an incorporated company.
Does the programme take equity in my project or startup?
No. There is no equity component — the rewards are competition prizes and the opportunity to pitch, not investment in exchange for a stake. It also costs nothing to enter.
What do I need to submit?
A working prototype of your AI engine, along with supporting documentation and a walkthrough video. The precise judging criteria and submission guidelines are provided to you after you register on the Reskilll platform.
What happens if my team makes the shortlist?
The top 10 teams are shortlisted and invited to a final pitching round. In addition, select participants may be offered the opportunity to work on building the AI-powered marketing platform that StepOne is developing.
Is the buildathon online, and how do I apply?
It is fully online — you build and submit remotely from anywhere in India. To apply, register through the official Reskilll platform at https://reskilll.com/hack/stepone before the 2 May 2026 deadline.
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