SheBuilds Chennai Hack – Code & Challenge 3.0 is a national-level women-in-tech hackathon designed to bring together innovators, developers, designers, and problem-solvers to build impactful solutions for real-world challenges. The event is organized by SheBuilds Chennai in collaboration with Intellexa REC, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for innovation.
Who Should Apply
This hackathon is exclusively for women aged 18 years and above, including students, professionals, freelancers, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Participants from both technical and non-technical backgrounds are welcome. Teams must consist of 2 to 4 members.
Tracks & Themes
Round 1, the Online Innovation Challenge, requires teams to select a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) or an impact-focused theme. They will identify a real-world problem and propose an innovative solution. For Round 2, the Offline Grand Finale, shortlisted teams will receive new challenge statements on which to ideate and build.
Format & Timeline
The competition unfolds in two stages. Round 1 is an Online Innovation Challenge where teams submit their ideas via a PPT template. Submissions are evaluated on problem understanding, innovation, feasibility, scalability, and potential social impact. The Top 50 teams will be shortlisted for Round 2. The Offline Grand Finale, a 24-hour event, will take place on August 1–2, 2026, at Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai. During the finale, teams will analyze new challenge statements, ideate solutions, build a working prototype, receive mentorship, and present their solution to judges. Finalists are assessed on innovation, technical implementation, user experience, business & impact potential, and presentation.
Prizes & Support
While specific cash prizes are not detailed, selected teams may receive invaluable guidance and ecosystem support for patent opportunities, research publications, startup development, and access to incubation and growth programs. The goal extends beyond the hackathon to help promising ideas achieve real-world impact.
Eligibility
Open to women aged 18 and above. Teams must comprise 2–4 members. Participants can be students, professionals, freelancers, or aspiring entrepreneurs.
How to Apply
Applications open on June 1, 2026, and close on June 30, 2026. Top 50 teams will be announced on July 15, 2026. Apply through the official application portal.
