UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026
A solo UI/UX design challenge by SIES College of Management Studies, testing real-world design thinking with a ₹1,800 cash prize pool.
- Funding amount
- ₹1,800 (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- SIES College of Management Studies (Academic)
- Application deadline
- Closed (21 Apr 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The UI/UX Solo Design Challenge, part of Pixels 2026, is an intensive, timed competition organised by SIES College of Management Studies (SIES), Mumbai. The challenge evaluates participants on their ability to apply design thinking—from identifying a real problem to creating a visual solution—within a fixed timeframe.
Who Should Apply? This competition is open only to solo participants. It is suited for design enthusiasts, students, and aspiring UI/UX professionals who want to individually demonstrate their skills and creativity.
Competition Structure: On the day of the event, each participant receives a specific domain. Within that domain, they must first identify a real-world problem, define a target user (persona), and then design an original solution. Creativity and originality are heavily rewarded.
Format & Timeline: The challenge lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes. Participants must use Figma (mandatory). The submission must include 2 to 5 screens (wireframe or high-fidelity), a basic user flow diagram, and a Figma file link with view access. A short verbal pitch of about 30 seconds is required during the presentation. The event takes place between April 5th and April 21st, 2026, with final submission and presentation due on April 21st.
Prizes: The total cash prize pool is ₹1,800. The 1st Prize winner receives ₹1,000, and the 2nd Prize winner receives ₹800. Winners also get certificates.
Rules & Eligibility: Solo participants only. Only Figma is allowed. No AI-generated UI or screens are permitted; all work must be original. While pre-made UI component kits are allowed, internet access is only for reference and copying is not allowed. Plagiarism results in instant disqualification. Judges' decisions are final.
Application: Registration closes on April 21st, 2026. Apply on the official Unstop event page.
Highlights
- Open to all solo participants; no prior professional experience required.
- Organised by SIES College of Management Studies, Mumbai, as part of Pixels 2026.
- Competition duration: 2 hours 30 minutes – a focused, timed challenge.
- Mandatory design tool: Figma; submission includes 2-5 screens and user flow diagram.
- First prize ₹1,000, second prize ₹800, plus certificates for winners.
- Deadline for submission and registration: April 21, 2026.
Who can apply
Open to solo participants only. Work must be original and created using Figma alone. No AI-generated UI or screens are allowed. Internet use is strictly for reference; no copying. Plagiarism or violation of rules results in disqualification.
UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 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
The most recent application window for UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 closed on 21 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Total cash prize pool of ₹1,800. 1st Prize: ₹1,000. 2nd Prize: ₹800. Winners also receive certificates.
About the provider
UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 is offered by SIES College of Management Studies, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by SIES College of Management Studies 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
Judging is based on the submitted design and short verbal pitch. Creativity, originality, problem identification, user persona definition, and solution design are key evaluation criteria. Judges' decisions are final. There is no detailed judging rubric or weightage provided.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 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
UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹1,800. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total prize money for this challenge?
The total cash prize pool is ₹1,800. The first-place winner gets ₹1,000, and the second-place winner gets ₹800.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is April 21, 2026. Registrations must be completed by that date.
Can I participate as a team?
No, this is a strictly solo challenge. Individual participation only.
What design tools are allowed?
Only Figma is permitted for creating the desing. No other tool is allowed.
Is AI-generated UI or content allowed?
No, AI-generated UI, screens, or any part of the design is not allowed. All work must be original.
How long is the competition and what is the format?
The challenge lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes. You must design 2 to 5 screens (wireframe or high-fidelity), include a user flow diagram, and provide a Figma file link with view access. A brief verbal pitch (around 30 seconds) is also part of the submission.
What happens if I copy or plagiarise?
Plagiarism leads to immediate disqualification. All work must be your own.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a design competition with cash prizes and certificates. Equity is not taken.
Where do I apply?
You can apply through the official Unstop event page using the link provided.
Do I need any special registration or DPIIT/MSME certification?
No special registration like DPIIT or MSME is needed. It is open to any solo participant.
How much funding does UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 provide?
UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 provides ₹1,800 (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 UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026?
UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026?
UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 is offered by SIES College of Management Studies, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026
Not sure UI/UX Solo Design Challenge || Pixels 2026 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
Ask anything about eligibility, documents or the process — answered by the community.
No questions yet — be the first to ask.