>.hack();_ ’26
Mar Athanasius College of Engineering
📌 About the Event
>.hack();_ ’26 is the flagship 36-hour premier hackathon organized by the IEEE Student Branch of Mar Athanasius College of Engineering (MACE). Marking its 7th edition, this national-level competition bridges hardware and software innovations to tackle pressing socio-technical challenges. Recognized globally with the IEEE Darrel Chong Student Activity Award and honored as the IEEE Kochi Subsection Best Event, >.hack();_ ’26 offers a high-octane environment complete with technical workshops, keynote talks, and direct networking with industry partners.
📅 Critical Timelines & Event Milestones
Theme & Tracks Reveal – July 05, 2026 Official unveiling of the 8 focus tracks for the 2026 edition.
Registrations Open – July 15, 2026
Registrations & Abstract Deadline – August 08, 2026 Final opportunity to submit project abstracts and lock in team applications.
Shortlisted Teams Announced – August 24, 2026 Announcement of teams selected for the 36-hour offline building phase.
Hackathon Kickoff – September 04, 2026 The 36-hour continuous hardware and software building sprint begins.
Judging & Finale – September 06, 2026 Project presentations, final judging rounds, and winner announcements.
🎛️ The 8 Focus Tracks
Participants can build both software applications and physical hardware prototypes across eight targeted problem domains:
- Brick By Byte: Smart city ecosystems that sense, connect, and respond to urban shifts.
- The World Redesigned for Her: Technology designed specifically around women’s health, safety, and daily experiences.
- Reclaiming Popcorn Brains: Digital wellness tools to break addictive technology loops and improve focus.
- Safe Sources & Zero Hunger: Sustainable agricultural technology, food distribution, and resource security.
- Care Beyond Labels: Healthcare innovations targeting often-overlooked dimensions of mental and physical well-being.
- Industry 4.0 (Automation for Good): Industrial IoT, robotics, and automation prioritizing worker safety and productivity.
- Inclusive Innovation (Access Without Limits): Assistive technologies providing equal access to opportunities.
- Resilience Against Uncertainties: Systems engineered to help communities withstand and recover from natural or man-made disasters.
👥 Eligibility & Rules
- Format: 36-hour continuous offline sprint (following abstract screening).
- Target Audience: Enrolled students from recognized academic institutions with a valid Student ID.
- Platform: Applications and abstract submissions are managed exclusively through Devfolio.
- Integrity: Strict policies regarding original code, clear AI tool disclosures, and fair play.
📞 Contact & Support Desk
For query resolutions regarding abstract requirements or team onboarding:
- Sooraj N S (Event Lead): +91 83048 11633
- Kalyani B (Event Lead): +91 70255 92234