Hackathon NOVA 2026

Build the Future. Code Innovation. Transform Ideas into Reality.

Hackathon Nova 2026 is Nepal's premier student-led technology innovation challenge, bringing together the brightest minds to solve real-world problems through cutting-edge technology. This 60-hour coding marathon is where ideas transform into impactful solutions.

Organized by the Computer Association of Pokhara Engineering College (CAPEC) and Information Technology Engineering Club – PEC (ITEC-PEC), this national-level hackathon provides a platform for students, developers, and innovators to showcase their skills, learn from industry coordinators, and compete for exciting prizes.

📅 Event Details

📆 Date: January 27–29, 2026 (60 Hours)
📍 Venue: Pokhara Engineering College, Nepal
💰 Registration Fee: NPR 3,000 per team (includes meals and swag)
👥 Team Size: 3 members per team
⏳ Registration Closes: January 25, 2026
🌐 Full Details: hackathon-nova.com

🏆 Prizes

🥇 1st Place: NPR 35,000
🥈 2nd Place: NPR 20,000
🥉 3rd Place: NPR 10,000

🎖 Participation Certificates: For all participants
🎁 Swag & Goodies: T-shirts, stickers, and more

🎯 Eligibility

🔹 Open to all undergraduate and graduate students
🔹 Participants must be 16 years or older
🔹 Valid student ID card or proof of enrollment required

🧠 Hackathon Themes

Choose a track that aligns with your passion and skills, or bring your own innovative idea.

🤖 Artificial Intelligence & ML
Build intelligent solutions using machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, NLP, and AI-powered applications.

🔐 Cybersecurity & Blockchain
Develop secure systems, blockchain applications, smart contracts, and solutions for digital security challenges.

🌱 Sustainability & Climate Tech
Create innovative solutions addressing environmental challenges, renewable energy, waste management, and climate action.

🩺 Healthcare & Wellness
Design health-tech solutions, telemedicine platforms, mental health apps, and innovations for better healthcare access.

📚 Education Technology
Transform learning experiences through EdTech platforms, e-learning tools, adaptive learning systems, and educational games.

🏙 Smart Cities & IoT
Build IoT solutions, smart infrastructure, urban mobility systems, and technologies for sustainable city development.

🚀 Open Innovation Track
Have a unique idea that doesn't fit the themes above? Bring your own innovative concept and compete in the open innovation track.

👥 Team Composition

🔸 Teams must consist of exactly 3 members
🔸 Cross-institutional teams are not allowed
🔸 Single participation is strictly not allowed
🔸 Team formation can be done before or during the event

📦 What’s Included

✅ 60 hours of workspace access
✅ Meals and refreshments
✅ Mentorship sessions
✅ Swag and merchandise
✅ Participation certificate
✅ Networking opportunities

📋 Judging Criteria

🟢 Innovation (25%): Originality, creativity, and uniqueness of the solution
🟢 Technical Complexity (25%): Quality of code, architecture, and technical implementation
🟢 Impact & Usefulness (20%): Real-world applicability and potential social impact
🟢 Presentation (20%): Clarity, communication, and demo effectiveness
🟢 Completeness (10%): Functionality, documentation, and overall polish