Hacktoberfest x MSC KBTCOE Nashik 2026
One builder, one idea, one build window. Create something with open source and AI, and ship it.
Register to hackBuild solo.
Ship it open.
This Fest runs on the Hacktoberfest 2026 challenges. You work alone, pick a track, and submit a public project.
Best use of Gemma 4
Build something that makes Gemma 4 do work a generic chatbot can't.
Best open-source AI project
Start or grow an open-source AI project that others can run, read, and contribute to.
Just you
No teams. Bring your own idea or pick a problem statement when they go live.
The timeline
Registration dates, then the full schedule for event day on 6 October 2026.
- Registration opens27 September 2026
- Registration closes5 October 2026
- Kickoff and problem statements8:00 AM
- Brainstorming & guidance8:30 AM
- Build window9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Refreshments & break12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Build window1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Submission deadline3:15 PM
- Judging round3:15 PM to 4:00 PM
- Results & closing4:00 PM onwards
Rules & submission
Read this before you start building.
Rules
- Solo participation only.
- Start your project fresh in the build window.
- Libraries, open-source code, and AI tools are fine. Say what you used in your README.
- Plagiarism means disqualification.
How to submit
- Public GitHub repository.
- README with the problem, your approach, and setup steps.
- A demo link or short demo video.
- Submit on the event page before the deadline.
How we judge
- Idea and originality
- Technical depth
- A demo that works
- Use of Gemma 4, or open-source quality
- README and documentation
Everyone involved in the Fest must follow the MLH Code of Conduct.
Problem statements
Each track gets example statements. You can also propose your own idea.
Best use of Gemma 4
Statements drop at kickoff. Date: TBA.
Best open-source AI project
Statements drop at kickoff. Date: TBA.
Got questions?
Can I join as a team?
No. This hackathon is solo only.
Do I need prior experience?
No. Beginners are welcome. Pick a scope you can finish and get a working demo first.
Can I use my own idea?
Yes, as long as it fits one of the two tracks.
Can I reuse an existing project?
Start fresh in the build window. You can use libraries and open-source code.
Can I use AI tools while building?
Yes. Mention them in your README so judges know what you built yourself.
Is it free? Will I get a certificate?
No registration fees. You bring the vibe, we do the rest! Every participant gets a certificate. Prizes will be announced on the day of the hackathon, so stay tuned!
Contact us
Stuck on registration, rules, or submission? Reach out.
Community
Coordinators
Kalpesh Chavan +91 93253 70705
Vinit Deore +91 84322 00981
Dronav Dalvi +91 95790
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