TRACKS
Brick By Byte: Buidling Cities that think
Intelligent smart city ecosystems that sense, connect, respond to a rapidly changing world
The World Redesigned for her
A world designed around women's needs, experience, and anticipations
Reclaiming Popcorn Brains
Technologies that empower individuals to break unhealthy digital cycles and reclaim their time and attention
Safe Sources & Zero Hunger
Solutions that strengthen security by rethinking how we grow, manage, and sustain resources
Care Beyond Labels
Innovations that address often-overlooked dimentions of health and well-being
Industry 4.0: Automation for good
Smarter ecosystems where productivity, sustainability, and safety go hand in hand
Inclusive Innovation : Access without limits
An inclusive future enabled by equal access, participation, and opportunity
Living with Uncertainties, Building with Resilience
Solutions that help communities anticipate, withstand, & recover from natural and human-made calamities
ABOUT US
>.hack();_ ’26 marks the 7th edition of IEEE MACE Student Branch's flagship event, a dynamic 36-hour premier hackathon dedicated to converging creative minds, technology and social impact. The event brings together students from diverse academic disciplines with a shared commitment to developing both hardware and software solutions that tackle real-world challenges.
Recognized globally with the IEEE Darrel Chong Student Activity Award and officially honored with the IEEE Kochi Subsection Best Event Award, >.hack();_ continues to set the benchmark for student-led innovation. Beyond intense building sessions, the event features inspiring keynote talks and curated networking opportunities, positioning >.hack();_ ’26 as not merely a hackathon, but a platform for professional growth and industry opportunities.
TIMELINE
July 05
Theme & Tracks Release
July 15
Registrations Open
August 15
Registrations Close
August 24
Shortlisted Teams
September 4
Hackathon Kickoff
September 6
Hackathon concludes
Rules & Regulations
The following rules are established to ensure a fair, transparent, inclusive, and engaging experience for all participants.
• The hackathon is open to students currently enrolled in recognized educational institutions. • Participants must complete the registration process through Devfolio before the specified deadline. • Every participant must carry a valid student ID for verification during the event. • Each participant may be a member of only one team.
Eligibility
• The hackathon is open to students currently enrolled in recognized educational institutions. • Participants must complete the registration process through Devfolio before the specified deadline. • Every participant must carry a valid student ID for verification during the event. • Each participant may be a member of only one team.
PAST HIGHLIGHTS
Take a look back at the incredible moments, brilliant innovations, and unforgettable memories from our previous hackathons.
2025
2024
Our Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Media Partner
Previous Sponsors
We're proud to have partnered with organizations that support innovation, technology, and student talent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the event.