Engineering Hackathon: Build AI that Real People Use

Build AI That Real People Use: Introducing the Homingo Hackathon (Edition 01)

Are you ready to move past toy problems and build AI solutions that actually solve real-world challenges? Powered by SurgeLabs, the Homingo Hackathon Edition 01 is officially live, inviting students and early-career developers across India to build, ship, and showcase production-ready AI engineering projects.

Whether you prefer coding solo or teaming up with up to four builders, this national-scale event is your chance to create impactful AI systems, receive expert mentorship, and get your work in front of industry professionals who ship AI for a living.

Event Snapshot

• Format: 100% Online (Open to all of India)
• Teams: Solo or 2–4 members
• Top Prize: ₹5,000 for the winner, plus Recommendation Certificates for the top 3 and participation certificates for everyone who submits.
• Registration Deadline: 15 November 2026 (11:59 PM IST)
• Kick-off Date: 21 November 2026

Choose Your Track

• Participants can choose from three cutting-edge Tracks:
• Agents: Build autonomous agents capable of planning, utilizing tools, and completing complex real-world tasks from end to end.
• Automation: Create intelligent pipelines and workflows designed to eliminate busywork from actual business operations.
• LLM Apps: Ship functional applications powered by large language models built specifically for real users.

Key Dates & Timeline

The hackathon follows an intensive 8-phase journey from ideation to demo day:

• 1 Oct – 15 Nov 2026: Registration opens
• 1 Oct – 18 Nov 2026: Team formation period
• 21 Nov 2026: Kick-off & problem statements release
• 21 Nov – 6 Dec 2026: Build phase with mentor check-ins
• 4 Dec – 6 Dec 2026: Project submissions
• 7 Dec – 12 Dec 2026: Shortlisting phase
• 19 Dec 2026: Finals & Online Demo Day
• 21 Dec – 31 Dec 2026: Results, certificates, and perks distributed

Beyond the Prizes: What’s in it for Builders?

• Beyond the top cash prize, standout participants unlock exciting career pathways and perks:
• SurgeLabs Opportunities: Internship and freelance project pathways for top builders.
• Fast-Track Interviews: Direct consideration for high performers.
• Platform Access: Free or extended access to Homingo Stores to launch your creations.
• Recognition: National spotlight features across the hackathon's site and social channels, plus personal LinkedIn recommendations.
• Lifelong Network: Lifetime access to the Homingo Community, connecting you with past alumni, mentors, and judges.

How to Get Involved

• Join as a participant: Assemble your team or register solo before registrations close on 15 November 2026.
• Become a mentor: If you are an experienced AI engineer, guide teams online at your own pace with no fixed hours required.