Hack[AI]thon 2026 at KVG College of Engineering, Sulya
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Quick Answer
Sphere Hive's 24-hour Data-Centric AI hackathon at KVG College of Engineering, Sulya (Karnataka), with Startup Lab, Joy University. ₹35,000 prize pool.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹35,000
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Joy University
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 5 May 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by Joy University. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this competition
Hack[AI]thon 2026 is a 24-hour national-level AI hackathon organized by Sphere Hive, KVG College of Engineering in collaboration with Startup Lab, Joy University. This competition challenges participants to improve model performance by focusing on data quality and curation rather than modifying the model architecture.
Challenge Overview Participants will tackle an image classification challenge using the 3LC platform. The core task involves analyzing embeddings, strategically labeling data, and iteratively retraining models to achieve higher accuracy on a hidden test dataset. The event is designed to simulate real-world AI workflows, emphasizing data quality, experimentation, and iterative improvement.
Who Should Apply This hackathon is open to students and developers from all colleges. While basic knowledge of Python and Machine Learning is recommended, the focus is on practical application and problem-solving. Participants must bring their own laptops and chargers.
Team Format Teams should consist of 2 to 4 members. Cross-college teams are permitted, encouraging diverse collaboration. Each team is required to submit one final solution.
Rules & Process Key rules include using only the provided dataset, no external datasets, fixed model architecture, and no pretrained weights. All work must be done during the hackathon duration. The process involves training a baseline model, analyzing model behavior using the 3LC dashboard, selecting and labeling important unlabeled samples, retraining the model with the improved dataset, and submitting predictions to a live leaderboard. Final ranking will be based on accuracy and approach.
Evaluation Criteria Submissions will be judged based on model accuracy on the test dataset, the effectiveness of the data-centric approach and strategy, effective use of embeddings and labeling, experimentation and iteration, and clarity of explanation and documentation.
Prizes & Benefits A total cash prize pool of ₹35,000 is available for top-performing teams. Additionally, all participants will receive certificates, a free .xyz domain, swag kits, goodies, and valuable networking opportunities with AI mentors and peers. This is a hands-on experience with Data-Centric AI tools.
How to Apply Registration for HackAIthon 2026 closes on May 5, 2026. Interested teams should register via the official event page linked above.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Go Premium to view.
Organizers
Joy University Joy University is a private university in Tamil Nadu offering engineering, management, and allied professional programs. The university has developed entrepreneurship and innovation infrastructure to support student startups and foster a culture of problem-solving…
Learn morePrizes & Awards
- Amount
- Up to ₹35,000
What You Get
- Cash prizes totaling ₹35,000 (e.g., ₹15,000 for Winners).
- Certificates for all participants.
- Free .xyz domain, swag kits, and goodies.
- Networking opportunities with AI mentors and peers.
- Hands-on experience with Data-Centric AI tools.
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 2
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.










