Hack-O-Octo 4.0

HACK-O-OCTO 4.0

• Organized By: Google Developer Groups on Campus – Chandigarh University
• Event Dates: October 23-24, 2026
• Duration: 24 Hours (Offline Hackathon)
• Registration Deadline: September 30, 2026

HACK-O-OCTO 4.0 is the fourth edition of GDG Chandigarh University's flagship hackathon — a 24-hour coding marathon designed to bring together innovators, developers, and creators from all domains to solve real-world challenges through technology.

Participants will ideate, prototype, and pitch their solutions before a panel of industry experts while gaining hands-on experience, mentorship, and the chance to win exciting prizes and recognition.

Eligibility:

• Open to all university students (Undergraduate and Postgraduate) across India.
• Inter-college teams are not allowed (teams must be either completely within CU or completely from a single outside college; cross-teaming is not allowed).
• Inter-specialization and interdisciplinary teams are highly encouraged.
• No prior hackathon experience is required — beginners are welcome!

Team Formation:

• Team Size: 2 to 5 members.
• Solo Participation: Not allowed.
• Teams can include members from different branches (or different colleges, subject to the non-cross-teaming rule for outside teams).

Hackathon Format:

Round 1: Idea Submission (Online):

• Teams will submit an abstract or short proposal outlining their idea and problem statement focus.
• Selected teams will qualify for the final 24-hour round.

Round 2: 24-Hour Onsite Hackathon (Offline At Chandigarh University):

• Duration: 24 continuous hours (October 23-24, 2026).
• Teams will develop, design, and present their working prototypes.
• Mentorship sessions and evaluation checkpoints will be conducted throughout the event.
• Final pitch presentations will be made before the judging panel.

Problem Statements & Themes:

Please refer to the official document for the detailed problem statements: View Problem Statements

Rules:

• Each team must submit original work. Plagiarism or pre-built projects will lead to immediate disqualification.
• The hackathon is 24 hours long — participants must work on their solutions only during the event timeframe.
• Code and prototypes must be submitted by the end of the hackathon for evaluation.
• Teams must be physically present for the final round at Chandigarh University.
• Participants must adhere to the event's code of conduct and maintain professional behavior throughout.
• All decisions made by the organizing committee and judges are final.

Prizes & Perks:

• Exciting Prize Pool: Attractive cash prizes and goodies for winning teams.
• Finalist Rewards: Trophies, exclusive swags, and certificates for all finalists.
• Career Growth: Networking and internship opportunities with top industry experts.
• Expert Guidance: Mentorship from professionals throughout the 24-hour build period.

Why Participate?

• Build innovative solutions with a real-world impact.
• Learn directly from experienced industry mentors.
• Expand your network at one of Chandigarh University's biggest tech events.
• Earn certificates, recognition, and potentially career-boosting opportunities.