FAQs | AI Builder Cup 2026

Do I need to build a full-fledged product, or is a prototype enough?

A working prototype is enough. It should demonstrate your idea functioning end-to-end and successfully deployed on Cloud Run/GCP/Firebase.

Does my prototype need to be built on Google Cloud?

Yes. Your solution must be built using Google Cloud's tech stack. Solutions built primarily on other cloud platforms will not be eligible for evaluation.

Can I use an existing project or one I've already started, or does it have to be built from scratch during the hackathon?

Only fresh projects built during the hackathon timeline are eligible. Submissions based on pre-existing projects, or work started before the program launch, will not be considered.

Can I submit more than one problem statement or theme?

No, one team can only submit one solution under one problem statement/theme.

Is there a fixed format for submission (video demo, GitHub repo, deployed link, etc.)?

Yes, here are the submission requirements — a working deployed link of your prototype, a video demo under 3 minutes, the public GitHub repository of your prototype and a deck explaining your solution in detail.

Can my team include a mix of students and working professionals?

No. This edition is open to working professionals, entrepreneurs, and startups only with age 21+ and based out of JAPAC region strictly. If any member of a team is a student, the entire team will be disqualified even if that's discovered after shortlisting or selection for the finale.

Can my team have members from different countries within JAPAC?

Yes, cross-country teams within JAPAC are allowed.

Can someone based outside the JAPAC region join a JAPAC-based team?

No, all team members must be based out of JAPAC region itself.

Is there a minimum team size, or can I participate solo?

You can participate solo. Teams can range from 1 to 4 members during the building phase; however, if shortlisted, only 2 team members can travel to Singapore for an in-person finale.

Can I be part of two different teams at once?

No, participants cannot register with multiple teams or submit under multiple problem statements.

What happens if a teammate drops out mid-way through the hackathon?

You can invite a new team member or join another team as long as the registration window is open. It closes on October 4.

If our team of 4 is shortlisted, can all 4 members travel to Singapore?

No. Only 2 members per shortlisted team will travel to and attend the in-person Grand Finale, regardless of team size during the build phase.

Can a third or fourth team member travel to Singapore at their own expense if the rest of the trip is sponsored for 2?

No. Only 2 members per team are permitted to attend the Grand Finale in Singapore, whether sponsored or self-funded.

What exactly does "fully sponsored" travel include — flights, visa costs, meals, local transport?

It includes flights, stay and meals on the day of the Grand Finale. More detailed information will be shared with the shortlisted team.

What happens if a shortlisted team member can't get a visa to Singapore in time?

We will announce the top teams for the Grand Finale 4 weeks in advance, which gives you enough time to apply for and receive a Singapore visa. Because flights are booked in each traveling member's name, we're unable to accommodate last-minute changes such as cancelling and rebooking a flight for a different team member. We'd strongly encourage teams to start their visa process as soon as they're shortlisted.