IEEE HackSynapse 2026 is a national-level 36-hour offline hackathon organized by the IEEE Industry Applications Society (IAS) Student Branch Chapter and the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society (RAS) Student Branch Chapter of Madhav Institute of Technology & Science (MITS), Gwalior, in collaboration with HackIndia. The event challenges participants through multiple evaluation stages that assess problem-solving ability, product thinking, UI/UX design, presentation skills, and technical expertise across AI, Web3 & Blockchain, and Open Innovation.

Who Should Apply The hackathon is open to undergraduate students enrolled in any recognized college or university. Students from all engineering branches and related disciplines — including Computer Applications, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Electronics, Design, Business, or other relevant fields — are eligible. Inter-college teams are allowed, and international students studying in recognized institutions may also participate. Every participant must possess a valid College ID.

Tracks / Themes

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Build solutions leveraging machine learning, deep learning, NLP, computer vision, or other AI techniques.
• Web3 & Blockchain: Develop decentralized applications, smart contracts, or blockchain-based systems.
• Open Innovation: Propose and build a solution to any real-world problem using modern technologies, including AI, Web3, or other emerging tech.

Format & Timeline The competition has two rounds:

• Round 1 (Online – Idea Submission): Teams submit a problem statement presentation (PPT using the official template), a 1.5–2 minute idea pitch video, and optionally a GitHub repository link. Submissions are made via the HackIndia platform. Shortlisting is based on innovation, feasibility, technical approach, clarity, and potential impact.
• Round 2 (Grand Finale – Offline 36-hour Hackathon): Shortlisted teams travel to MITS Gwalior for a 36-hour building sprint. Mentors from academia and industry guide participants. Final presentations and live demos are evaluated by an expert jury. Accommodation is provided for qualifying teams.

Judging criteria include: Innovation & Creativity, Problem Relevance, Technical Implementation, Feasibility & Scalability, UI/UX & User Experience, Business/Social Impact, and Presentation & Communication.

Prizes Total rewards worth ₹1.5 lakh+, including cash prizes, sponsor rewards, goodies, and exclusive benefits. Winning teams receive cash prizes, goodies, certificates, and nationwide recognition. Certificates are awarded to all finalists and participants who successfully complete the hackathon.

Eligibility Open to undergraduate students from any recognized institution. Teams of 3–4 members. Inter-college teams allowed. International students with valid college IDs are eligible. No registration fee for Round 1; shortlisted teams pay ₹1,100 per team for offline participation.

About the Organiser IEEE is the world's largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. The IEEE IAS and RAS Student Branch Chapters at MITS Gwalior regularly organize technical events, workshops, and competitions to foster innovation among students. HackIndia is a platform that supports student hackathons across India.

How to Apply Registration is open from 15 July 2026 to 23 August 2026 on the official HackIndia platform (link provided on the Unstop event page). Teams must complete online registration and submit Round 1 materials by the deadline. Shortlisted teams will be notified on 27 August 2026 and must complete offline registration and fee payment by 2 September 2026.