IEEE Pune Section · BRAIN Foundation
About Hack4Humanity
A global AI and technology challenge building solutions that matter.
What is Hack4Humanity 2026?
Hack4Humanity is a flagship innovation challenge organized by IEEE JCTS Pune, IEEE SIGHT Pune, IEEE Young Professionals Pune Section, and the BRAIN Foundation. This two-round event challenges students, engineers, and researchers to develop impactful technology solutions across three curated tracks — each mapped to a dedicated institutional or thematic driver.
This is not a typical hackathon. Hack4Humanity is structured around two competitive rounds — an online qualifier evaluating problem clarity and solution vision, followed by a 12-hour in-person Grand Finale in Pune where teams build from scratch under real-world constraints. Every project is expected to demonstrate measurable societal benefit.
Vision & Mission
Our Vision
To inspire and empower a new generation of innovators to leverage quantum intelligence, cyber resilience, and responsible AI for solving humanity's most pressing challenges. Rooted in the collective vision of the partnering organizations, the initiative aims to foster technology-driven solutions that are ethical, inclusive, secure, and socially transformative.
Our Mission
Hack4Humanity is committed to delivering a rigorous, inclusive, and mentorship-rich hackathon experience that connects students with cutting-edge institutional frameworks — from brain-quantum interfaces to national cyber security strategies and AI-driven social impact — and bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world deployment, empowering young technologists to build solutions with meaningful global impact.
Three Challenge Tracks
Quantum Computing
Brain-Driven Quantum Frontier
Cyber Security
JCTS Emerging Threat Defence
AI for Societal Good
Technology with Purpose
Event Format
Deadline: 15 July 2026
Fully online ideation round. Teams submit a solution document (4–6 pages), 3-minute pitch video, and preliminary GitHub repository. Top 10 teams per track qualify.
8 August 2026 · Pune
12-hour in-person hackathon in Pune. Qualified teams build their solution from scratch on-site. Live demos, jury evaluation, and awards ceremony.
Organising Bodies
IEEE Joint Chapter of TEMS and System Council, Pune Section — The global engineering professional society's technical and systems management chapter, providing institutional credibility and access to a worldwide network of technology professionals.
IEEE Special Interest Group on Humanitarian Technology, Pune Section — Dedicated to harnessing technology for social good, SIGHT Pune drives the humanitarian mission of the event and ensures all projects are evaluated through a lens of meaningful impact.
IEEE Pune Section Young Professionals Affinity Group — Championing early-career engineers and researchers, the YP AG brings mentorship, networking, and career development to every participant.
Bharat Research in AI and NextGen Foundation — A research foundation focused on advancing AI and next-generation technology innovation across India, providing academic and industry partnerships.
Awards & Recognition
Grand Champion — Quantum Track
Trophy + Certificate + ₹25,000
Grand Champion — Cyber Track
Trophy + Certificate + ₹25,000
Grand Champion — AI Good Track
Trophy + Certificate + ₹25,000
On-the-Spot Special Awards
Worth ₹25,000 (Jury's choice)
Participation Certificate
All Round 2 finalists