// EDWINNOVA_2026
APR 3–6
ALVAS INSTITUTE
MANGALURU, KA
Pre-vetted startup teams. Real investor-mentors. Win prizes and get the chance to secure actual funding for your venture.
// EVENT AT A GLANCE
// COUNTDOWN TO LAUNCH
// About the Event
EDWINNOVA is a 4-day startup hackathon that bridges the gap between student entrepreneurs and real investors. Unlike traditional hackathons, we connect pre-vetted startup ideas with potential investors who serve as stakeholders, mentors, and potential funders.
By selecting top startup ideas and inviting investors to sponsor the event in exchange for first access, we create a win-win ecosystem where everyone has genuine skin in the game.
Real funding opportunities, hands-on mentorship from active investors, and incubation space for your venture.
AUTO-PLAYING
// Competition Format
Auto-scrolling · Touch to pause
PM/Business Lead presents the startup idea to your assigned investor-stakeholder. Get honest feedback on market viability and investment potential.
Deep dialogue with your investor-stakeholder. Document refined strategy, competitive positioning, and create a detailed execution roadmap.
First 16-hour cycle. Ship working software. Incremental value delivery is rewarded. Checkpoint evaluation at the end of the cycle.
Second cycle. Incorporate feedback. Push your prototype further. Demonstrate resilience and quality under pressure.
Final build cycle + finalist selection. Top performing teams in every domain. Cumulative performance determines who makes the cut.
Top teams pitch to investors. Live demo, market opportunity, business model, Q&A. Only finalists are eligible for investment.
// Prize Structure
Prizes are awarded per innovation domain. Investment opportunities are completely separate and available to all for the finalists.
BONUS OPPORTUNITY
Investor Funding
All finalists can attract investment from sponsor-investors, independent of prize results.
TOTAL PRIZE POOL
Across 3 domains
// Post-Event Incubation
Startups that receive investment from event sponsors get access to a comprehensive incubation package at Alvas Institute of Engineering and Technology — completely free for one year.
In exchange, Alvas Education Foundation acquires a 3% equity stake, aligning the institution's success with yours. This isn't charity — it's partnership.
// NOTE
Equity stake only applies to startups that receive external investment from event sponsors. Teams that win prize money but don't receive investment have zero equity obligations.
Dedicated office space at Alvas for 1 full year — zero rent.
Electricity, high-speed internet, and college facilities included.
Access to college laboratories, equipment, and technical resources.
Guidance from faculty advisors and industry professionals.
Warm introductions to Alvas alumni and industry partners.
In exchange: 3% equity stake, creating long-term institutional alignment.
// PROPOSAL GUIDELINES
Your proposal is your first impression. Review the guidelines carefully before submitting strong proposals have a clear problem statement, market analysis, and a credible team.
//SELECT DOMAIN
Three domains. Three real world problems. One chance to build something that matters. Choose the arena that fits your vision.
