Are you a developer, professional, entrepreneur, startup, or AI builder based in the JPAC region? Here is an exciting opporutnity for you. Applications are open for Google AI Builder Cup 2026, an immersive AI hackathon organized by Hack2skill and supported by Google Cloud. This competition invites applications from entrepreneurs, startup teams, working professionals, and developers aged 21+ across the Japan & Asia-Pacific (JPAC) region to build AI solutions that solve real-world problems.
You can participate individually or with a team of 2-4 members. Shortlisted participants will have the opportunity to travel to Singapore to attend the in-person finale, to be held on December 4th, 2026. The competition offers a total cash prize pool of $30,000, including a fully funded trip to Singapore and up to $30,000 in cash prizes. No application fee is required. The last date to register for the competition is October 4th, 2026. Read more details below.
Google AI Builder Cup 2026 Overview
- Hosted by: hack2skill
- Supported by: Google Cloud
- Eligible Region: JAPAC
- Programme: AI hackathon Competition
- Finale Location: Singapore
- Application Deadline: October 4th, 2026
About Google Cloud AI Builder Cup
It’s an immersive AI hackathon competition that allows participants to build a working AI prototype that solves real-world problems. The hackathon gives participants a problem and time to develop the solution.
The shortlisted teams will attend the in-person grand finale in Singapore, where they will demonstrate their work in front of experts.
Who can Apply?
The competition is aimed at:
- Working professionals, startups, developers, and AI Builders
- Applicants from the JAPAC region can apply
- Students are not eligible to apply
- You can apply individually or as a team of 2-4 members
Challenge Themes:
Participants will build AI prototypes based on one of the following challenge areas:
- Intelligent Risk, Fraud & Financial Experiences
- Intelligent Customer and Business Experiences
- Future of Work & Enterprise Productivity
- Sustainability & Social Impact
- Manufacturing
- Media, Content & Digital Experiences
The projects will be evaluated based on:
- Technical quality.
- AI implementation.
- Impact.
- Innovation and user experience.
Prize Pool
- Winner: $10,000
- First Runner-Up: $7,000
- Second Runner-Up: $5,000
- Best use of Google AI Tools: $2,000
- Best Impactful Solution: $2,000
- Social Choice Award: $2,000
- Best UX/UI: $2,000
In addition to the prize, shortlisted teams will also have the opportunity to attend the in-person finale in Singapore, with all their expenses covered.
Hackathon Timeline
- Registration Timeline: September 1- 30, 2026
- AI-Prototype Solution building: September 7- October 3, 2026
- Evaluation: October 5 – November 6, 2026
- Finalist Announcement: November 7, 2026
Why Apply?
- Turn in your solution as a working product.
- Compete for a 30,000 USD prize.
- Opportunity to win a fully funded trip to Singapore.
- Showcase your work to experts from Google Cloud and the technology industry.
- Expand your network with fellow participants and professionals.
How to Apply?
Applicants interested in the competition must submit an online application through the official registration portal. Use the official link below to apply.
