Defy The Limits

Name: DeFy'26 Web3 Hackathon
Start: 2026-01-12T09:00:00+05:30
End: 2026-01-13T15:30:00+05:30
Location: VIT Chennai

Code. Create. Conquer. Join the Defy 26 Hackathon and push innovation beyond limits.

Defy The Limits

Get all the information you need to understand and join DeFy'26

What is DeFy'26?

DeFy'26 is the third installment of an exhilarating hackathon that brings together Web3 enthusiasts and aspiring entrepreneurs from colleges, all united in a quest for genuine innovation. Distinct from conventional collegiate hackathons that focus solely on coding technical solutions, DeFy'26 challenges participants to rethink the very concept of a hackathon. Here, the goal transcends mere programming; it is about disrupting norms and reimagining the future. DeFy'26 seeks to break down barriers by integrating technology with business insights, fostering the creation of Web3-powered startups that herald a new era where 'Decentralization' and 'Future Yield' coexist harmoniously.

Key Points:

Intensive hackathon experience

Web3 & entrepreneurship focused

Teams of 4-6 members only

Integrates technology with business insights

DEFY 26 HACKATHON

Defy the Limits

System Override Begins In ⚡

Days

Hours

Minutes

Seconds

Choose Your Track

Pick a track that matches your skills and passion. Build innovative solutions and compete for amazing prizes.

Defi

Build decentralized financial solutions

Public goods

Create solutions for the community

Open Innovation

Innovate without boundaries

Defy 25 Memories

Relive the unforgettable moments from last year's hackathon. Witness the innovation, collaboration, and creativity that defined Defy 25.

500+

Participants

120+

Projects

Hours

1 Lakhs+

Prize Pool

Scroll

Ready to create new memories at Defy 26?

EVENT TIMELINE

✓

REGISTRATIONS BEGIN

17th Nov 2025 (Mon) - 10:00 AM

Choose a track to compete in and register your team on Devfolio. Teams of 4-6 members only.

REGISTRATIONS END

20th Dec 2025 (Sat) - 11:59 PM

Submit your PPT for the ideation round before the deadline. Make sure all team members have completed their applications.

HACKATHON STARTS

12th Jan 2026 (Mon) - 09:00 AM

Shortlisted teams arrive at VIT Chennai for the grand hackathon showdown. Let the coding begin!

HACKATHON ENDS

13th Jan 2026 (Tue) - 03:30 PM

Final submissions, presentations, and judging. Results will be announced with top teams presenting their prototypes and investor-ready pitch decks.

DETAILED SCHEDULE

Detailed Hackathon Schedule

Complete timeline of events for DeFy'26 hackathon days.

12th January 2026 - Day 1

9:00 AMReporting

10:00 AMClosing

11:00 AMSpeaker Session

11:30 AM - 12:45 PMLunch

12:50 PM - 1:30 PMSpeaker Session

1:30 PMHackathon Commences

7:30 PM - 9:00 PMDinner

9:00 PM - 10:30 PMStudent Evaluation (Internal)

13th January 2026 - Day 2

11:30 AM - 1:00 PMSenior Judge Evaluation

1:00 PM - 1:30 PMLunch

1:45 PMHackathon Ends / Results (Top 9 Teams)

2:00 PM - 2:45 PMPitching Round

3:00 PM - 3:30 PMResults

FAQs

Who can participate?

DeFy 26 is open to college students, from all backgrounds, who are passionate about Web3 and/or are aspiring entrepreneurs.

What is the permitted team size? Can I participate individually?

You can participate in teams of 4-6 if you fit the above criteria. Unfortunately, DeFy 26 does not permit solo participations.

When will the applications and submissions close?

Applications and submissions both close on 31st Dec, 2025.

Can I participate if I don't have deep technical knowledge in blockchain or Web3?

Absolutely! This hackathon encourages collaboration, so we expect teams to be comprised of both tech-oriented and business-oriented participants. Make sure you have both kinds in your team.

Is it mandatory to focus on both the business and Web3 aspects?

Yes. Participants should not only showcase technical proficiency in their prototypes but also demonstrate a clear understanding of the market and the business potential of their ideas.

What is the prize pool?

The prize pool sits at 1 Lakh+ Rupees, consisting cash rewards, tokens and goodies!

How much does it cost?

Registrations are free of cost to all.

Do you provide travel reimbursements for the finalists?

While DeFy 26 is free-of-charge to participants thanks to our sponsors and partners, the event cannot cover travel or other expenses for attendees.

Defy The Limits

Defy The Limits

What is DeFy'26?

DEFY 26 HACKATHON

System Override Begins In ⚡

Choose Your Track