ET AI Hackathon 2.0 showcases India’s growing emphasis on practical AI innovation

Artificial Intelligence is best understood by building with it. Hackathons have become one of the fastest ways for students and developers to turn ideas into working solutions. As AI tools become more accessible, these platforms are playing a key role in shaping real-world skills.

The first edition of the ET GenAI Hackathon is now nearing its end, with jury evaluations currently underway. The response has been overwhelming, showcasing just how much untapped AI talent exists across the country.

Following the strong response to its first edition, The Economic Times now returns with the ET AI Hackathon 2.0, a larger and more ambitious national platform for AI innovation. Designed to identify and spotlight India’s most promising AI builders, thinkers and problem-solvers, the hackathon goes beyond a typical competition. It offers a structured, multi-phase journey that reflects how real-world AI solutions are built, starting with an initial assessment, moving through ideation and prototype development and ending with final presentations evaluated by industry leaders.


This initiative stands out for its focus on solving real-world problems across business innovation, social impact and open innovation. Participants begin with an online assessment to test their foundational AI knowledge, move into an intensive build phase where ideas turn into working prototypes and finally present their solutions at a high-energy grand finale in front of industry leaders.

Register now to be part of the ET AI Hackathon 2.0

What makes this hackathon especially compelling is what lies beyond the prizes. While 10 lakh in cash rewards are on offer, participants also gain something far more valuable: visibility. Shortlisted teams get the chance to present their work to CXOs, recruiters and investors, opening doors to internships, hiring opportunities, and long-term career growth. For students, developers and product thinkers alike, this is a platform to prove not just technical skill, but the ability to build scalable, impactful AI solutions.

Registering for ET AI Hackathon 2.0 is more than signing up for a competition, it is a statement of intent, signalling that you are ready to build with AI, ready to collaborate, and ready to be evaluated on a national stage. Whether you are just starting out or already deep into AI development, the hackathon offers a structured way to test yourself against real problems and real expectations.

As AI continues to redefine the nature of work, opportunities like this separate passive learners from active builders. It is in platforms such as these, where ideas evolve into products, and the next generation of AI leaders begin their journeys. Registrations are open, and the clock is ticking. If you are ready to build, innovate, and be seen, now is the time to register and claim your place in India’s largest AI hackathon.

Register now to be part of the ET AI Hackathon 2.0