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BuildAI 3.0

National AI startup challenge offering cash prizes, incubation opportunities and an IIT Guwahati showcase.

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Funding amount
INR 5 lakh total cash prizes: INR 2 lakh first prize, two INR 1 lakh prizes and two INR 50,000 prizes
Scheme
BuildAI
Open for
Indian AI startups may apply., The event is scheduled for 14–15 November 2026 at IIT Guwahati, Assam., Shortlisted startups may receive travel reimbursement at actual cost up to INR 10,000 per startup.
Deadline
Applications close 15 October 2026

About the Program

BuildAI 3.0 is a national competition organized by IndiaAI, MeitY and ITEL Foundation with IIT Guwahati and IITG Technology Incubation Centre. It identifies AI ventures for prizes, incubation and commercialization support.

Eligibility requirements

  • The applicant must be an AI startup between zero and three years old.
  • Student startups may apply but must hold DPIIT certification.
  • Applicants must complete ITEL’s interactive screening application and attach a pitch deck.

Offerings / Benefits

  • INR 2 lakh first prize.
  • INR 1 lakh each for the second- and third-place winners.
  • INR 50,000 each for the fourth- and fifth-place winners.
  • Potential incubation through IndiaAI and MeitY.
  • Potential co-incubation through ITEL Foundation and IITG Technology Incubation Centre.
  • Travel reimbursement up to INR 10,000 per shortlisted startup.
  • Mentorship and exposure to the AI innovation ecosystem.
  • Incubation is subject to the Incubation Committee’s decision and is not guaranteed.

Sectors supported

Artificial intelligence and AI-enabled solutions with demonstrable technical readiness and real-world applicability.AI & Artificial Intelligence

Selection process

  • Applicants complete an AI-based interactive screening application and submit a pitch deck.
  • Shortlisted ventures demonstrate their technology during Demo Day.
  • Teams then deliver pitch presentations assessing innovation, impact and incubation readiness.
  • The incubation committee independently determines incubation offers.

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