Young Builders' Program
A programme by GIFT International Fintech Innovation Hub (IFIH) (International Fintech Innovation Hub)
Hackathon plus residency at GIFT City for students and young fintech builders.
At a glance
| Best for | Students, recent graduates and young fintech builders below 29 |
|---|---|
| Stage | Idea – Prototype |
| Duration | 2-day hackathon plus 2 months in GIFT City |
| Format | In person |
| Cost | Free |
| Grant support | For selected startups. A place in the programme does not by itself guarantee a grant. |
| Run with | IFSCA |
About Young Builders' Program
A route from idea to prototype for students, recent graduates and young innovators. It is not a startup accelerator, and the 2026 application window has closed.
What you get
- A two-day fintech ideation hackathon in GIFT City
- A residency at GIFT City of about two months for selected teams, with product sprints and mentor office hours
- Complimentary campus access and milestone-linked stipend support for selected teams
- Priority entry to the IFSCA Innovation Sandbox for the top three hackathon-winning teams
Who can apply
- Below the age of 29 years old as of 21 July 2026
- Indian citizen or enrolled in an Indian educational institution
- Individually or in a team of up to 4 members
How selection works: Shortlisted applicants join the hackathon, and selected teams are invited to the residency.
How to apply: Through the Apply Now button on the programme page while a window is open.
Where to apply
Other IFIH programmes
Everything about GIFT International Fintech Innovation Hub (IFIH)