ZerveHack
ZerveHack is a global online hackathon by Zerve AI, focusing on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence with a $10,000 prize pool.
- Funding amount
- ₹9L (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- Closed (29 Apr 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
ZerveHack is a global online hackathon organized by Zerve AI, aimed at driving innovation in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. This fully virtual event invites developers, data scientists, students, and innovators worldwide to collaborate and build impactful AI solutions. Participants can work individually or in teams, and the hackathon is open to all backgrounds.
The competition runs from February 26, 2026, to April 29, 2026. During this period, participants develop their projects and submit them via the Devpost platform. The focus is on AI and ML applications, including predictive models, natural language processing, computer vision, and intelligent automation.
The prize pool is $10,000 USD, awarded to the winning projects. There are no geographic restrictions, making it accessible to Indian participants and international teams alike.
Highlights
- Global online hackathon by Zerve AI focused on ML and AI.
- Open to individuals and teams worldwide, no background restrictions.
- Prize pool of $10,000 USD for winning projects.
- Competition runs from February 26, 2026, to April 29, 2026.
- Submissions via Devpost platform.
- No equity taken—pure cash prizes.
Who can apply
ZerveHack is open to individuals and teams globally, with no specific country or background requirements. Participants from India are welcome. There are no restrictions on professional or academic background—anyone passionate about AI/ML can apply.
ZerveHack 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 ZerveHack closed on 29 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
A prize pool of $10,000 USD is available for the winning projects. This is a cash prize competition; no equity is taken. The funding details beyond the total prize pool are not specified, so prizes may be split among multiple winners.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Projects are submitted via Devpost by the deadline (April 29, 2026). The selection process is not detailed, but typically a panel of judges evaluates submissions based on criteria such as innovation, technical execution, and impact.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to ZerveHack, 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
ZerveHack is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹9L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What is ZerveHack?
ZerveHack is a global online hackathon organized by Zerve AI, focusing on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence with a $10,000 USD prize pool.
Who can apply?
ZerveHack is open to individuals and teams globally, including participants from India. There are no specific restrictions on location, professional background, or academic status.
What is the deadline?
The application and project submission deadline is April 29, 2026.
How much funding is offered?
The prize pool is $10,000 USD. The exact distribution among winners is not specified.
Does the program take equity?
No, ZerveHack is a competition with cash prizes. No equity is taken from participants.
What are the themes or tracks?
The hackathon focuses on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, including applications like predictive models, NLP, computer vision, and intelligent automation.
What is the competition timeline?
The hackathon runs from February 26, 2026, to April 29, 2026. Participants develop and submit their projects within this period.
How do I apply?
You can register and submit your project through the official Devpost page at https://zervehack.devpost.com/.
What documents are needed?
No specific documents are mentioned. Typically, you will need to describe your project and possibly include a demo or code repository via Devpost.
Is this only for students?
No, ZerveHack is open to all: developers, data scientists, students, and innovators from any background.
Is DPIIT recognition required for ZerveHack?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for ZerveHack, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Alternatives to ZerveHack
Not sure ZerveHack 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.