Vibe-a-thon — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Vibe-a-thon — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total prize money?
The total cash prize pool is ₹1,30,000, distributed as ₹40,000 for 1st place, ₹25,000 for 2nd, ₹15,000 for 3rd, and ₹10,000 for each track winner.
Who can participate?
Only students currently pursuing an engineering degree are eligible. Teams must have 2–4 members, and cross‑college teams are allowed.
What are the themes or tracks?
The tracks are Healthcare and MedTech, FinTech and Financial Inclusion, Sustainability and Climate Tech, AI and Automation, and Open Innovation.
What is the application deadline?
The final registration deadline is May 2, 2026.
How do I apply?
There is a registration fee of ₹250 per team, payable after qualifying Round 0. Apply through the official Unstop link provided by NMIT.
What is the hackathon format?
It has three rounds: Round 0 (online qualifying), Round 1 (offline), and Round 2 (offline final). Participants must bring their own laptops.
When is the event held?
The inauguration is on April 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM IST. Offline rounds take place after the online qualifying.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, after qualifying Round 0, each team must pay ₹250.
Can I participate if I am not from NMIT?
Yes, the hackathon is open to all engineering students across India, and cross‑college teams are allowed.
What documents or materials do I need?
Participants must bring their own laptops and necessary peripherals. No equipment is provided by the organizers.
How much funding does Vibe-a-thon provide?
Vibe-a-thon provides ₹1.3L (up to) as competition. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Does Vibe-a-thon take equity?
No. Vibe-a-thon is competition and is non-dilutive — the provider does not take an equity stake in your startup.
Is DPIIT recognition required for Vibe-a-thon?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for Vibe-a-thon, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for Vibe-a-thon?
Vibe-a-thon is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers Vibe-a-thon?
Vibe-a-thon is offered by NMIT Bangalore, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.