IGNOU SwaAI Innovation Sprints 2026: Complete Guide to Registration, Events & Opportunities Win Cash Prizes at IGNOU’s AI Innovation Sprints 2026 (Apply Before Jan 6)
Quick Facts Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | SwaAI and Innovation Sprints & Swadesiprenures and Innovators’ Mahotsav-2026 |
| Organised by | NCIDE, IGNOU (in collaboration with SOCIS) |
| Who can apply | IGNOU registered students & alumni |
| Register before | January 06, 2026 |
| Venue | IGNOU Headquarters, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068 |
| Sprints Dates | 2nd & 4th February 2026 |
| Sprint Timing | 09:30 AM – 01:30 PM |
| Demo Day + Mahotsav | 10th February 2026 |
| Demo Day Timing | 09:30 AM – 04:30 PM |
| Important notes | No TA/DA, shortlisted participants bring own laptop, limited seats |
Introduction: India’s Premier AI Innovation Platform for Distance Learners
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), in collaboration with the National Centre for Innovations in Distance Education (NCIDE) and the School of Computer and Information Sciences (SOCIS), has launched an unprecedented opportunity for students and alumni. The SwaAI and Innovation Sprints and Swadesipreneurs and Innovators’ Mahotsav-2026 represent a groundbreaking initiative that bridges the gap between distance education and cutting-edge AI innovation.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this multi-day innovation program, from registration details to the complete event timeline.
What is SwaAI and Innovation Sprints 2026?
Program Overview
SwaAI (Swadeshi Artificial Intelligence) and Innovation Sprints are carefully designed program that walks participants through the complete innovation lifecycle:
- AI-enabled idea development: Transform concepts into viable solutions
- Rapid prototyping: Build working models using AI tools
- Real-world testing: Validate your innovations in practical scenarios
- Innovation showcasing: Present your work to industry experts and investors
- Expert mentoring: Receive guidance from seasoned professionals
The program’s tagline, “Where Swadeshi Ideas Shape Tomorrow’s India,” emphasises the focus on indigenous innovation and self-reliance in technology.
Key Event Details
Important Dates
| Event | Date | Time | Venue | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Deadline | January 6, 2026 | – | Online | |
| Sprint 1 | February 2, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM | SOCIS, IGNOU | Design Thinking & Idea Development: Learn to use AI tools to brainstorm and refine your ideas. |
| Sprint 2 | February 4, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM | SOCIS, IGNOU | Rapid Prototyping (AI Enthusiasts’ Day Out): Hands-on session to build prototypes using digital tools. |
| Sprint 3 & Exhibition | February 10, 2026 | – | IGNOU, Maidan Garhi | |
| Demo Day & Mahotsav | February 10, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM | IGNOU, Maidan Garhi | The Exhibition: Showcase your AI-based innovation or startup to experts and visitors. |
Venue Details
School of Computer and Information Sciences (SOCIS)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068
Who Can Participate?
Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to:
- Current IGNOU Students: All bona fide and registered students
- IGNOU Alumni: Former students who have developed AI ideas, prototypes, innovative products, processes, or services
- Focus on AI-based themes: All participants must work on AI-related innovations
Important Note on Selection
- NO TAs (Travel Allowances) will be provided to shortlisted participants for joining the events
- Shortlisted participants must bring their own laptops to the events
- Only 25 participants will be shortlisted for participation in the Sprint Events (1, 2, and 3)
- Participants will be shortlisted for participation in Swadesipreneurs & Innovators’ Mahotsav-2026 separately
- Selected participants may work on the selected problem individually or in teams
- Selected innovations and prototypes developed during the sprints may be exhibited on Demo Day
Why Should You Participate? (Prizes & Perks)
This isn’t just a seminar; it’s a competition and a launchpad.
- Cash Prizes: The top 3 stalls at the Exhibition (Demo Day) will be awarded:
- 🥇 1st Prize: ₹2,500/-
- 🥈 2nd Prize: ₹1,500/-
- 🥉 3rd Prize: ₹1,000/-
- Expert Mentoring: Shortlisted participants get support to scale their startup/business venture.
- Certificates: All shortlisted students/alumni who participate in Day 1 & Day 2 get a Certificate of Participation.
- National Platform: A chance to showcase your innovation to a wider audience.
Program Structure: A Three-Phase Approach
Phase 1: Design Thinking and Development (Sprint 1)
Date: February 2, 2026
Focus areas:
- Problem identification and definition
- Design thinking methodologies
- Understanding AI tools and frameworks
- Rapid prototyping fundamentals
- AI Enthusiasts’ Day Out activities
Phase 2: Rapid Prototyping (Sprint 2)
Date: February 4, 2026
Activities:
- Hands-on development using AI tools
- Building Minimum Viable Products (MVPs)
- Technical mentorship sessions
- Iterative development and testing
- “AI Enthusiasts’ Day Out” networking
Phase 3: Exhibition and Showcase (Sprint 3)
Date: February 10, 2026
Culmination events:
- Sprint 3 Exhibition: Display of AI-based innovations and startups
- Demo Day: Live demonstrations of developed solutions
- Swadesiprenueres and Innovators’ Mahotsav-2026: Grand showcase event
Showcasing AI-Based Innovations and Startups
Participation Requirements for Demo Day
The Demo Day and Startup segment (February 10, 2026) is specifically designed for:
- Participants who have developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Those with a full-fledged functional project or startup related to AI
- Innovators ready to present their solutions to a wider audience
Competition and Recognition
Top Three Startups/Business Ventures will receive:
- Certificate of participation
- Memento as recognition
- Cash Prizes:
- 1st Prize: ₹25,000/-
- 2nd Prize: ₹15,000/-
- 3rd Prize: ₹10,000/-
All shortlisted participants for the Swadesiprenueres & Innovators’ Mahotsav-2026 will receive:
- Certificate of participation
- Valuable networking opportunities
- Exposure to potential investors and mentors
Suggested Theme Areas for Innovation
Participants can work on AI-based solutions across diverse domains:
- Technology Innovations
- AI/ML applications
- Automation solutions
- Software development
- Data analytics platforms
- Healthcare & Medical Tech
- Diagnostic AI tools
- Patient management systems
- Telemedicine solutions
- Health monitoring applications
- Environment & Sustainability
- Climate change solutions
- Renewable energy optimization
- Waste management systems
- Environmental monitoring
- Agriculture & Rural Development
- Precision agriculture
- Crop monitoring and prediction
- Supply chain optimisation
- Farmer assistance platforms
- Finance & Commerce
- Fintech solutions
- Digital payment systems
- Financial inclusion tools
- Trading and investment platforms
- Home & Careers
- EdTech platforms
- Skill development tools
- Career guidance systems
- Home automation solutions
- Creative Work
- Content creation tools
- Design automation
- Creative AI applications
- Media and entertainment tech
- Safety & Security
- Cybersecurity solutions
- Surveillance systems
- Threat detection
- Emergency response tools
- Smart Cities
- Urban planning solutions
- Traffic management
- Smart infrastructure
- Citizen services platforms
- Infrastructure Development
- Construction tech
- Resource management
- Logistics optimization
- Project management tools
How to Register (Step-by-Step)
Registration is online via Google Form. Follow these steps carefully:
- Prepare Your Idea: Be ready to describe your AI application in fields like Teaching, Healthcare, Agriculture, Finance, Smart Cities, etc.
- Fill the Form: Enter your Full Name (as per IGNOU records), Email, and Mobile Number.
- Submit Before Deadline: The form closes strictly on January 06, 2026.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Registration Guide
Registration Process
- Access the Google Form
- Link: https://forms.gle/V7BSyHG2gvDY2kga9
- Available until January 6, 2026
- Required Information
- Full Name (as per IGNOU records)
- Gender
- Email ID
- Mobile Number
- Additional details about your AI project/idea
- Submit Details
- Interested students and alumni may register online by submitting their details through the provided form
- Ensure all information is accurate and complete
- Wait for Confirmation
- Selected participants will be notified about shortlisting
- The decision of the University is final in all matters pertaining to SwaAI and Innovation Sprints and Swadesipreneurs and Innovators’ Mahotsav-2026
Critical Guidelines (Read Before Applying)
- Selection is Limited: Only 25 participants will be shortlisted for the Sprint Events (Day 1 & 2), and 15 participants for the Final Exhibition (Day 3).
- Bring Your Own Device: Shortlisted participants must bring their own laptops for the sprint events.
- No TA/DA: IGNOU will not provide Travel Allowance or Daily Allowance. You must manage your own travel and stay.
- Mandatory Attendance: Selected participants may work individually or in teams.
Why Should You Participate?
Benefits for Students and Alumni
- Hands-on AI Experience
- Work with cutting-edge AI tools and technologies
- Learn by doing through practical projects
- Understand real-world AI implementation
- Expert Mentorship
- Guidance from experienced professionals
- Industry insights and best practices
- Technical support throughout the development process
- Networking Opportunities
- Connect with fellow innovators
- Meet industry experts and potential investors
- Build relationships with IGNOU’s innovation ecosystem
- Recognition and Validation
- Showcase your work on a national platform
- Receive certificates and awards
- Gain credibility for your innovations
- Financial Incentives
- Compete for cash prizes up to ₹25,000
- No participation fees mentioned
- Opportunity to attract investor interest
- Career Advancement
- Enhance your portfolio with tangible projects
- Demonstrate practical skills to potential employers
- Open doors to startup opportunities
- Contribution to Nation-Building
- Be part of India’s Swadeshi AI movement
- Develop solutions for Indian challenges
- Contribute to self-reliance in technology
Program Objectives: Brainstorm to Breakthrough
The SwaAI and Innovation Sprints program has clearly defined objectives:
Primary Goals
- Problem-Solving Through Design Thinking
- Learn to identify real problems
- Apply structured problem-solving frameworks
- Develop innovative solutions using AI
- Understanding Current AI Trends
- Stay updated with the latest AI developments
- Learn about rapid prototyping methodologies
- Explore digital transformation opportunities
- Fostering AI-Enabled Innovations
- Encourage startup initiatives among IGNOU students and alumni
- Bridge the gap between academic learning and practical innovation
- Create a supportive ecosystem for AI entrepreneurs
Organising Partners: A Collaborative Effort
National Centre for Innovations in Distance Education (NCIDE)
NCIDE serves as the primary organiser, bringing expertise in:
- Distance education innovation
- Technology integration in learning
- Student support services
- Research and development
School of Computer and Information Sciences (SOCIS)
SOCIS provides:
- Technical infrastructure and facilities
- Faculty expertise in AI and computer science
- Laboratory and testing resources
- Academic guidance and support
Additional Support
Several prestigious organisations back the event:
- MoE’s Innovation Cell (Government of India)
- MAAC (Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics)
- INIIT (Indian National Institute of Information Technology)
- AI Summit organizers
- Institution’s Innovation Council
What Makes This Program Unique?
- Inclusive Access: Unlike traditional innovation programs limited to regular university students, this initiative specifically targets:
- Distance learning students
- Working professionals pursuing education
- Alumni who may have left formal education but continue to innovate
- Students from diverse geographical locations
- Swadeshi Focus: The emphasis on indigenous innovation aligns with:
- India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative
- Self-reliance in critical technologies
- Solutions tailored to Indian contexts and challenges
- Reducing dependence on foreign technology
- Complete Innovation Lifecycle: Unlike one-day hackathons, this program offers:
- Multiple sprint sessions for iterative development
- Time to refine and improve ideas
- Mentorship at different stages
- Real-world testing opportunities
- Recognition and Rewards: Tangible benefits, including:
- Certificates from IGNOU
- Cash prizes for top performers
- Portfolio-building opportunities
- Industry exposure
Tips for Success: Maximising Your Chances
Before Registration
- Identify a Clear Problem
- Research real-world challenges
- Ensure the problem can be addressed with AI
- Validate that it’s worth solving
- Conceptualise Your Solution
- Outline how AI can solve the problem
- Consider feasibility and scalability
- Think about the potential impact
- Choose Your Theme Wisely
- Select from the suggested theme areas
- Align with your expertise and interests
- Consider market potential
During the Sprints
- Come Prepared
- Bring your laptop (mandatory)
- Have the necessary development tools installed
- Prepare questions for mentors
- Be Open to Feedback
- Listen to expert advice
- Iterate based on suggestions
- Don’t get attached to initial ideas if they need change
- Network Actively
- Connect with fellow participants
- Exchange ideas and experiences
- Build potential collaboration opportunities
- Document Your Progress
- Keep track of your development journey
- Take photos and videos
- Prepare for the final presentation
For Demo Day
- Perfect Your Pitch
- Clearly explain the problem you’re solving
- Demonstrate your solution effectively
- Highlight unique features and benefits
- Prepare Visual Materials
- Create compelling presentation slides
- Have a working demo ready
- Prepare backup plans for technical issues
- Practice Your Presentation
- Time your demo appropriately
- Anticipate questions
- Be confident but humble
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there any registration fee?
A: The registration details don’t mention any participation fee. The form is free to access.
Q2: Can I participate if I’m not currently enrolled at IGNOU?
A: Yes, IGNOU alumni who have developed AI-based innovations are eligible to participate, especially for the Demo Day and Mahotsav segments.
Q3: Do I need to have a working prototype to register?
A: No, you can register with just an idea. The Sprint Events (1 and 2) are designed to help you develop your prototype. However, for Demo Day participation, you should have at least an MVP.
Q4: Will accommodation be provided?
A: The documents don’t mention accommodation provisions. As TAs are not provided, participants may need to arrange their own stay if coming from outside Delhi.
Q5: Can I participate in a team?
A: Yes, the guidelines mention that “selected participants may work on the selected problem individually or in teams.”
Q6: What if I’m selected but can’t attend all sprint events?
A: Participation in all assigned events is likely mandatory. The selection is for the complete program, not individual events.
Q7: How will winners be selected?
A: The criteria aren’t explicitly mentioned, but typically include innovation, feasibility, presentation quality, and potential impact. The university’s decision is final.
Q8: What AI tools will be available during the sprints?
A: Specific tools aren’t listed, but participants should bring their own laptops. The program will likely guide you on available and recommended AI tools.
Q9: Can I participate if I don’t have a startup yet? A: Yes, if you have a strong idea or prototype that uses AI, you are eligible. The Sprint events are designed to help you develop that idea.
Q10: Is there an entry fee? A: No, the image does not mention any registration fee, but you must bear your own travel expenses.
Q11: I am an alumni, not a current student. Can I apply? A: Yes! The event is open to both current registered students and IGNOU alumni
Future Implications: Beyond the Event
Participating in SwaAI Innovation Sprints can open several doors:
Career Opportunities
- Portfolio enhancement with concrete AI projects
- Networking with industry professionals
- Potential job offers from impressed mentors or judges
- Entrepreneurship pathways for viable innovations
Startup Ecosystem
- Access to IGNOU’s innovation and incubation support
- Connections to potential investors and accelerators
- Mentorship for scaling your solution
- Validation of your business idea
Academic Growth
- Practical application of theoretical knowledge
- Research opportunities in AI and innovation
- Publications and conference presentations
- Further academic collaborations
Personal Development
- Enhanced problem-solving skills
- Improved presentation and communication abilities
- Confidence in technical capabilities
- Leadership and teamwork experience
Conclusion: Your Gateway to AI Innovation
The SwaAI and Innovation Sprints and Swadesipreneurs and Innovators’ Mahotsav-2026 represent more than just a competition—it’s a comprehensive program designed to nurture India’s next generation of AI innovators. For IGNOU students and alumni, this is a unique opportunity to:
- Transform ideas into working prototypes
- Learn from experts in a structured environment
- Compete for recognition and rewards
- Contribute to India’s technological self-reliance
With the registration deadline approaching on January 6, 2026, now is the time to act. Whether you have a fully developed concept or just a nascent idea, this program provides the framework, mentorship, and resources to bring your innovation to life.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of India’s AI revolution. Register today and shape tomorrow’s India with your Swadeshi ideas!
Quick Action Checklist
- Review your AI project idea or concept
- Ensure you meet eligibility criteria (IGNOU student or alumni)
- Complete the registration form: https://forms.gle/V7BSyHG2gvDY2kga9
- Submit before January 6, 2026
- Prepare your laptop and development environment
- Mark your calendar: February 2, 4, and 10, 2026
- Start refining your pitch and presentation
- Connect with fellow IGNOU students interested in participating
Contact Information
For more details or queries:
National Centre for Innovations in Distance Education (NCIDE)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068
This event is organised by NCIDE in collaboration with SOCIS and supported by MoE’s Innovation Cell (Government of India), along with multiple institutional partners.
