Edge AI Hackathon 2026 is a national-level hardware innovation challenge organized by the IEEE EDS Student Branch Chapter and IEEE Council on Electronics Design & Automation PMEC. The hackathon aims to encourage students to design and implement real-time Edge AI and Embedded Systems solutions using FPGA, Raspberry Pi, Renesas, ESP32, and Arduino platforms. Participants will solve real-world engineering challenges while showcasing innovation, technical excellence, and hardware implementation skills.
Who Should Apply
Open to B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. students from any Indian institute. Teams of 3–5 members from the same institute are eligible. Inter-department and inter-specialization teams are allowed.
Tracks / Themes
The competition is structured around three hardware tracks:
- FPGA — Design and implement solutions using FPGA platforms.
- Raspberry Pi / Renesas Kit — Build applications using Raspberry Pi or Renesas development boards.
- ESP32 / Arduino — Develop embedded systems using ESP32 or Arduino.
Problem domains include Communication Systems, Biomedical Engineering, Image and Signal Processing, Processor Design, Defence and Security, and Indian Knowledge Systems.
Format & Timeline
The hackathon is a multi-round competition:
- Round 0: Online abstract submission.
- Round 1: Online software simulation.
- Round 2: On-site hardware implementation, live demonstration, and final presentation at Parala Maharaja Engineering College, Berhampur, Odisha.
Development boards will be provided by the organizers. Teams must bring their own sensors and peripherals if required. Projects must be original; plagiarism leads to disqualification. Each team must select one official problem statement. The decision of the judges and organizing committee is final.
Prizes
Total cash prize pool of ₹45,000 distributed across the three tracks:
- FPGA track: ₹20,000
- Raspberry Pi / Renesas Kit track: ₹15,000
- ESP32 / Arduino track: ₹10,000
All winners receive certificates.
Eligibility
Open to B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. students. Team size: 3–5 members. All team members must belong to the same institute. Inter-department and inter-specialization teams are allowed.
About the Organiser
Parala Maharaja Engineering College, Berhampur, is a premier engineering institution in Odisha. The IEEE EDS Student Branch Chapter and IEEE Council on Electronics Design & Automation PMEC are active student chapters that regularly organize technical events, workshops, and competitions to foster innovation in electronics and embedded systems.
How to Apply
Registration deadline is August 15, 2026. Registration fee: ₹1,200 per participant (₹1,000 for IEEE members). Free hostel accommodation will be provided for participants. Apply via the official Unstop page linked above.
