Ideathon

Welcome to the flagship Ideathon of E-Summit '26! We are looking for the best innovators to solve challenges in EdTech, HealthTech, and RetailTech. This is a "Bring Your Own Device" event where you will transform an idea into a functional MVP and a business pitch in just 2 days.

Details:

• Mode: Hybrid (Idea submission online; Grand Finale offline).
• Team Size: 3 to 4 Members.
• AI Policy: Usage of Generative AI tools is allowed and encouraged.

Rounds & Timelines:

• Round 1: Idea Submission (Online / Elimination)
  
  • Type: Submission Round
  • Deadline: 
  • Description: Teams must choose one of the three themes (EdTech, HealthTech, RetailTech) and submit their initial proposal.
  • Submission Format: (attached)
  • Selection: The best ideas will be shortlisted for the offline round.

Round 2: The Build (Offline @ IIITDM Kancheepuram):

• Date: Jan 31st, 2026 (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
• Description: Shortlisted teams report to campus. You will have dedicated time to build your
• MVP (Minimum Viable Product) as well as Pitch Deck.
• Checkpoint: Mentors/Judges will review "Progress & Prototype" during this session.

Round 3: The Pitch & Finale (Offline @ IIITDM Kancheepuram):

• Date: Feb 1st, 2026 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
• Description: Teams must present their final MVP alongside a Business Proposal (Pitch Deck).
• Judging: Top 1 team from each theme (EdTech, HealthTech, RetailTech) will be selected as winners.

Important Dates:

• Registration Start Date: Jan 21, 2026
• Registration Deadline: Jan 26, 2026
• Shortlist Announcement: Jan 28, 2026
• Ideathon Day 1: Jan 31, 2026
• Ideathon Day 2: Feb 1, 2026

Rules & Guidelines:

• Inter-college teams are allowed.
• Shortlisted teams must be physically present at the venue on Jan 31st.
• Unethical behavior or plagiarism will lead to immediate disqualification.
• The decision of the judges will be final and binding.
• AI Usage: The use of AI tools (LLMs, Image Generators, Code Assistants) is fully permitted and encouraged to speed up your MVP development.
• Attendance: All team members of shortlisted teams must be present offline at the IIITDM Kancheepuram campus.
• Originality: While AI tools are allowed, the core idea must be original. Plagiarism of existing startups or projects will lead to disqualification.
• BYOD: This is a "Bring Your Own Device" event. Please ensure your laptops have the necessary software installed.
• The event pass is mandatory to participate in the event.