About this event
Microsoft Imagine Cup 2026 — Imagine a World Where You Create
Host: Microsoft
Theme: Empowering student developers to create innovative technological solutions that make a global impact
About the Hackathon
Microsoft Imagine Cup is a premier global student technology competition that inspires and empowers students to turn their ideas into reality. Through innovation, collaboration, and technological mastery, participants build projects that aim to solve pressing challenges worldwide. The 2026 edition invites students to create solutions using Microsoft’s cutting-edge technologies across a variety of categories.
What to Build
- Develop creative, scalable applications that address real-world problems
- Solutions leveraging Microsoft Azure cloud, AI, IoT, Mixed Reality, and other Microsoft technologies
- Projects can span domains such as healthcare, education, environment, accessibility, and more
- Emphasis on solutions that can make measurable social, environmental, or economic impact
Why Participate?
- Gain mentorship from Microsoft experts and industry leaders
- Access to Microsoft tools, cloud credits, and technical resources
- Showcase your project before a global audience
- Chance to win cash prizes, internships, and opportunities to launch a startup with Microsoft’s support
- Join a vibrant community of student innovators and changemakers
Key Dates
- Registration and submission deadlines vary; check official site for latest updates
- Multiple stages including regional qualifiers, semifinals, and global finals
Prizes & Opportunities
- Cash awards for top teams
- Microsoft Azure credits and software licenses
- Mentorship and exposure to investors and industry professionals
- Opportunity to compete in the worldwide Imagine Cup finals and beyond
Judging Criteria
- Innovation and creativity of the solution
- Technical complexity and use of Microsoft technologies
- Potential impact and scalability
- Quality of presentation and demonstration
Join Microsoft Imagine Cup 2026 to bring your boldest ideas to life, develop your skills, and become a leader in global tech innovation!