The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon
A global online hackathon hosted by Rice University with ₹16.28 lakh prize pool focused on urban sustainability. Open to all.
- Funding amount
- ₹15.8L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Rice University (Academic)
- Application deadline
- 18 Sept 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon is an online competition organised by Rice University, aimed at developing innovative solutions for urban sustainability challenges. It is now in a new edition, running from June 23 to September 18, 2026. Participants can join from anywhere in the world as individuals or form teams of up to 4 members. The hackathon focuses on themes such as technology, design, and social good applied to urban environments. This is a competition with a total prize pool of ₹16.28 lakh distributed among the winning teams. Registration takes place on the official Devpost page, with the deadline being September 18, 2026.
Highlights
- ₹16.28 lakh prize pool
- Open to students, professionals and teams anywhere in the world
- Global online hackathon from 23 June to 18 September 2026
- Teams of up to 4 members allowed
- Focus on urban sustainability themes (tech, design, social good)
Who can apply
The hackathon is open to participants worldwide, including Indian residents. There are no explicit restrictions on nationality or professional background — students, professionals, and anyone passionate about sustainability, urban planning, data science, or technology can apply. Both individuals and pre-formed teams of up to 4 members may register. The event is entirely online, so no travel is required.
The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon 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 The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon are open and the current deadline is 18 Sept 2026. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Winners share a total prize pool of ₹16.28 lakh. The exact distribution per rank is not specified. No equity is taken, as prizes are awarded to the winning projects. The funding is purely prize money — not a grant or loan — and can be used for any purpose. All participants gain exposure to a global community and the chance to have their solution evaluated by expert judges.
About the provider
The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon is offered by Rice University, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by Rice University as a competition. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
All submitted projects are reviewed by a panel of experts from Rice University and the urban sustainability domain. They evaluate entries based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, impact, and design. No specific stage-by-stage breakdown beyond usual hackathon judging rounds has been disclosed.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon, 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
The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹15.8L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total prize money?
The total prize pool is ₹16.28 lakh, distributed among winning teams.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is September 18, 2026.
Who can apply?
The hackathon is open to participants worldwide. Students, professionals, and anyone interested in sustainability, urban planning, data science, or technology can apply. There are no location restrictions for Indians.
Can I apply as a team?
Yes, individuals or teams of up to 4 members can participate.
Is the hackathon online or offline?
It is entirely online, so you can participate from anywhere.
What are the themes for projects?
The hackathon focuses on urban sustainability challenges, leveraging technology, design, and social good.
Does the hackathon take equity?
No, it is a competition. The prizes are cash awards — no equity is taken.
Where can I register?
Registration is via the official Devpost page at the URL provided by Rice University. You need to sign up before the deadline.
What documents are needed for registration?
No specific documents are mentioned. Typically, you provide your basic information, team details if applicable, and submit your project before the deadline.
What costs are involved in the prize money?
The prize money is a monetary award. There is no mention of deducting taxes or fees; winners should comply with their local tax regulations.
How much funding does The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon provide?
The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon provides ₹15.8L (up to) as competition. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Is DPIIT recognition required for The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon?
The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon is offered by Rice University, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon
Not sure The Rice University Urban Sustainability Hackathon is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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