What truly sets ALGOfest Hackathon apart is its focus on blending algorithmic excellence with real-world applications. Unlike traditional hackathons that focus solely on product development, ALGOfest emphasizes the importance of strong computational logic, optimization, scalability, and efficiency. Participants are encouraged not only to build working prototypes but also to design solutions that are robust, efficient, and capable of handling real-world complexity.

Another unique aspect is the mentorship-driven approach. Throughout the hackathon, participants gain access to industry experts, experienced developers, and domain specialists who provide guidance, feedback, and insights. This mentorship ensures that teams are not only building projects but also learning and improving continuously during the event.

  Themes and Tracks

ALGOfest 2026 features multiple tracks designed to cater to diverse interests and skill sets:

  • Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
    Build intelligent systems using cutting-edge AI models, predictive analytics, and automation tools.
  • Sustainable Technology
    Create solutions addressing climate change, renewable energy, waste management, and environmental sustainability.
  • FinTech Innovations
    Develop secure, scalable financial systems, blockchain applications, and digital payment solutions.
  • HealthTech
    Design healthcare solutions that improve accessibility, diagnosis, patient care, and medical data analysis.
  • Smart Cities & IoT
    Build smart infrastructure solutions using IoT, data analytics, and automation.
  • Open Innovation Track
    Freedom to build anything innovative that doesn’t fit within predefined tracks.
  Event Format

ALGOfest 2026 will be conducted in a hybrid format, allowing both in-person and virtual participation. This ensures inclusivity and accessibility for participants from different geographical locations.

The hackathon spans 48 to 72 hours, during which teams brainstorm, design, develop, and present their projects. The event includes:

  • Opening Ceremony
  • Problem Statement Release
  • Team Formation Sessions
  • Mentorship Rounds
  • Workshops & Tech Talks
  • Midway Evaluations
  • Final Presentations
  • Judging & Awards Ceremony
  Who Should Participate

ALGOfest welcomes participants from all backgrounds

No matter your skill level, if you have the passion to build and learn, ALGOfest is for you.

  Why Participate

Participants will gain:

  • Hands-on experience solving real-world problems
  • Exposure to cutting-edge technologies
  • Networking opportunities with industry experts
  • Mentorship and guidance
  • Exciting prizes and recognition
  • Internship and career opportunities

ALGOfest is not just about winning—it is about learning, collaborating, and growing.

Requirements

To ensure fairness and maintain high-quality standards, participants must adhere to the following submission guidelines.

Project Requirements

Each team must build a functional prototype that aligns with one of the hackathon tracks or the open innovation category. The project should demonstrate:

  • Clear problem identification
  • Innovative approach or solution
  • Technical implementation
  • Usability and user experience
  • Scalability and feasibility
Mandatory Submission Components

Participants must submit the following on Devpost:

  1. Project Title & Description
    A clear and concise explanation of your project, including the problem it solves and your approach.
  2. Demo Video (2–5 minutes)
    A recorded demonstration showcasing your project functionality, features, and use cases.
  3. Presentation Deck (Optional but Recommended)
    Slides explaining the problem, solution, architecture, and impact.
  4. Source Code Repository
    A public GitHub/GitLab repository containing:
    • Well-structured code
    • Documentation (README)
    • Setup instructions
  5. Live Demo Link (if applicable)
    A deployed version of your project (website, app, API, etc.).
  6. Technologies Used
    List all tools, frameworks, APIs, and technologies used.
  7. Team Details
    Names, roles, and contributions of each team member.

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$5,000+ in prizes
+ other prizes
1st Place (Grand Winner)
$2,500 in cash
1 winner

Awarded to the team with the most outstanding overall project.
Prize includes: Cash reward, certificates, exclusive mentorship opportunities, and potential incubation support.

3rd Place (Second Runner-Up)
$500 in cash
1 winner

Awarded to a team demonstrating strong technical skills and creativity.
Prize includes: Cash reward, certificates, and swag kits.

2nd Place (Runner-Up)
$1,000 in cash
1 winner

Recognizing a highly innovative and well-executed solution.
Prize includes: Cash reward, certificates, and partner goodies.

Theme-Based Prizes
$100 in cash
10 winners


To encourage focused innovation, special awards will be given for each hackathon track:

Best AI/ML Solution
For the most impactful and technically sound artificial intelligence or machine learning project.
Best Sustainable Innovation
For solutions addressing environmental challenges and sustainability.
Best FinTech Solution
For innovative financial systems, blockchain applications, or fintech tools.
Best HealthTech Project
For solutions improving healthcare accessibility, efficiency, or diagnostics.
Best Smart City / IoT Solution
For projects enhancing urban living through smart technologies.
Best Open Innovation Project
For the most creative idea outside predefined tracks.

Each theme winner receives:

Cash prizes or vouchers
Certificates of excellence
Recognition across official platforms

Special Awards
10 winners

Additional awards to recognize diverse talents and contributions:

Best Beginner Team
For first-time hackers who demonstrate exceptional effort and creativity.
Best Design & UI/UX
For projects with outstanding user experience and interface design.
Most Innovative Idea
For unique, out-of-the-box thinking.
Best Social Impact Project
For solutions that create meaningful change in society.
People’s Choice Award
Selected through community voting.

Participation Benefits
500 winners

At ALGOfest, every participant is a winner in their own way.

All participants will receive:

Certificate of Participation
Access to workshops and mentorship sessions
Networking opportunities with industry professionals
Exposure to real-world problem-solving
Chance to showcase projects on a global platform

Top-performing teams may also receive:

Internship or job opportunities
Invitations to future programs or incubators

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

AlgoFest Jury Board

AlgoFest Jury Board

Judging Criteria

  • Innovation & Creativity (25%)
  • Technical Complexity (25%)
  • Practical Impact (20%)
  • Design & User Experience (15%)
  • Presentation & Demo (15%)

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

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