Unstop TA Hackathon — ₹1.5L in Prizes for HR & TA Leaders — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Unstop TA Hackathon — ₹1.5L in Prizes for HR & TA Leaders — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is the Unstop TA Hackathon?
It is a competition organised by Unstop along with People Matters, aimed at people who work in talent acquisition and HR. Entrants are given one case study about slow hiring cycles and asked to present a better approach in a short video. The top teams then pitch on stage at TechHR India 2026 in Delhi.
How much money can I win?
The prize pool goes up to ₹1.5 lakh. The Jury Winner takes home ₹1,00,000 in cash, while the Audience Winner receives ₹50,000, and both get a trophy along with on-stage felicitation.
Who is eligible to participate?
Working professionals across India in talent acquisition, HR and people roles can apply — including TA leaders, recruiters, HR business partners, HR-tech professionals and people analytics experts. Independent recruiters are welcome, and so are professionals who are currently between roles.
Can I enter alone or do I need a team?
Both options work. You can compete as a solo participant, or put together a team of up to 3 members.
Does the hackathon take any equity in my idea?
No. This is a competition that awards cash prizes, trophies and certificates, not an investment programme. There is no equity, stake or ownership in your work that goes to Unstop or People Matters.
What is the deadline for submissions?
The listed program deadline is 1 August 2026, and the online round itself closes when video submissions are due — 3 August 2026 at 11:00 AM IST. Results from that round are declared by 5:00 PM IST the same day, so it is worth registering early rather than leaving it to the last moment.
What do I need to submit?
You register, unlock the case study and then record a 3-minute video presenting your solution to the hiring challenge. Submissions are judged on problem framing, feasibility, innovation and the strength of your impact story.
What happens at the Grand Finale?
Six teams present live at TechHR India 2026 in Delhi on 6 August 2026 — four that qualified through the online round and two wildcard teams shortlisted on site. Each team gets a 5-minute live presentation followed by jury Q&A, and the audience votes live on Unstop alongside the jury's evaluation. A Jury Winner and an Audience Winner are announced.
What do finalists and participants receive beyond the cash prizes?
All six finalist teams receive a Certificate of Recognition from Unstop and People Matters, and shortlisted teams get complimentary passes to TechHR India. Every participant who takes part receives a Participation Certificate.
How do I apply?
Register on the Unstop platform, build your team of 1 to 3 members, and unlock the case study. From there, submit your 3-minute video presentation before the 3 August 2026, 11:00 AM IST cut-off.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Unstop TA Hackathon — ₹1.5L in Prizes for HR & TA Leaders?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Unstop TA Hackathon — ₹1.5L in Prizes for HR & TA Leaders, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
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