Chandigarh University Launches India’s First AI Fest 2026 During India AI Impact Summit (Feb 19–21)

Mohali: To empower young innovators, ignite creativity, and translate bold ideas into technology-driven, real-world solutions, Chandigarh University launched India’s first ‘AI Fest -2026’, a three-day mega innovation initiative featuring three flagship events -- ‘CU InnovFest 2026’, ‘Campus Tank’ and ‘Sandbox’ on the sidelines of the ‘India AI Impact Summit 2026’ in New Delhi from February 19 to 21. 

Envisioned as a national launchpad for AI-led startups and entrepreneurial talent, the AI Fest aims to bridge the gap between idea generation, product development, and market-ready solutions by providing mentorship, industry exposure, funding pathways and incubation support by fostering innovation across AI, deep tech, and emerging technologies to create tech-driven solutions for Viksit Bharat.

The unveiling of the AI Fest was done in the presence of Umar Ali Shaikh, Chief Executive Officer, Atos Solutions & Systems Pvt Ltd, and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor of Chandigarh University, Satnam Singh Sandhu, among other dignitaries. The dignitaries present during the launch also unveiled the InnovBot (Robot) as the official mascot and official website of AI Fest 2026. The registration for participation in the fest is now officially opened and interested candidates can apply at www.cuchd.in/aifest-2026/.

This AI Fest will feature over 35 competitions across three categories, bringing together more than 1,000 national and international teams from across the country to showcase their creativity, technical expertise, and problem-solving capabilities. With a total prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, winning teams will be honoured with cash awards along with certificates of excellence. 

The fest will also provide participants with the opportunity to earn globally recognized certifications from SAS - the world’s leading analytics and data science software company, with certification benefits valued at over Rs 1 crore. 

The AI Fest would feature a National Finale of ‘Campus Tank’ launched by Chandigarh University in collaboration with Apna, an Indian Unicorn and leading professional job networking platform, and Venture Catalysts – India’s top incubator for startups – as India’s first university-led start-up launchpad in August 2025, with an opportunity to earn access to a funding pool of $6 Million. A total of 1055 start-up applications were received for Campus Tank, of which 331 startups have been shortlisted to participate in the on-campus rounds. The finale on 21st February would feature a final pitch competition amongst the top 10 teams. 

The AI Fest 2026 would also feature Sandbox, organized by Chandigarh University’s Technology Business Incubator (CU TBI), which is an open innovation platform inviting participation from students, professionals, startups, and independent innovators. During the AI Fest 2026, the young innovators would showcase their new products and ideas. CU-TBI would felicitate the final 10 shortlisted teams to formalize a Deep-Tech and AI-based Cohort. 

The Chief Guest, Umar Ali Shaikh, Chief Executive Officer, Atos Solutions & Systems, said, “Businesses and innovation are all about course correction, and to succeed, you must believe in yourself, your cause, and the value you create. Skills alone are not enough; you can upskill, but without the will, knowledge alone won’t take you far. You need to have a marathon mindset. Life and innovation are not 100-meter sprints; they are 42-kilometer races. Patience, persistence, and staying focused on your purpose will differentiate you from the rest. Technology and AI are constantly evolving so learn continuously to keep your skills and solutions relevant.”

Shaikh added, “India is emerging as the global leader in AI talent, positioning the country at the forefront of the digital economy. By 2030, the AI ecosystem is expected to generate millions of new jobs, underscoring AI’s transformative impact on economic expansion and national development. 

Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor of Chandigarh University, Satnam Singh Sandhu, said, “In line with the vision and action framework of the AI Impact Summit 2026, CU has launched India’s first AI Fest to drive innovation for Viksit Bharat. AI is expected to play a decisive role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, and youth is one of the four key pillars to realize this vision. Chandigarh University has been consistently organizing technology-driven initiatives to promote innovation and nurture an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth. AI Fest - 2026 is a continuation of this commitment. Just as the AI Impact Summit is guided by the three sutras of People, Planet and Progress under the AI for All agenda, AI Fest at CU also aims to ignite the spirit of innovation among the next generation and inspire them to harness AI for social good. With its expansive scale, industry collaboration and innovation-driven focus, CU AI Fest 2026 is poised to emerge as one of India’s most impactful university-led platforms for nurturing innovation, creativity, and future-ready talent.”

All 35 contests under InnovFest 2026 are centered around five strategic pillars, including Deep Tech & Intelligent Systems, Governance, Law & National Resilience, Innovation Led Markets & Leadership, Advanced Engineering, Design & Physical Systems, Creativity, Design Thinking & Human Expression.