If you are working on a real AI product, building a functional prototype, or running an early-stage AI startup, then AKTU AI Manthan 2026 deserves your attention. This is not a routine college event or a casual hackathon. It is a selection-based, government-supported AI platform where only 10 startups will be chosen to present their work before senior academic leaders and government authorities.
The program is being organized by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), Lucknow, with a clear focus on practical Artificial Intelligence applications that can be deployed in education, governance, healthcare, and public systems.
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What Is AKTU AI Manthan 2026?
AKTU AI Manthan 2026 is a flagship initiative focused on understanding the challenges and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence in higher and technical education. Alongside expert discussions, the event features a highly selective AI Startup Showcasing Zone.
This showcasing zone is meant for startups that have moved beyond ideas and are ready to demonstrate:
- A working AI product
- A functional MVP
- Or a deployable prototype
In short, this platform is designed for execution-driven AI teams, not concept-stage projects.
Why the AI Startup Showcasing Zone Is Important
Participation in the showcasing zone is not open to everyone. Only 10 AI startups will be shortlisted after evaluation.
This makes the event valuable for one key reason:
you are presenting in front of people who can actually approve pilots, deployments, and collaborations.
For selected startups, this is an opportunity to:
- Demonstrate real AI solutions
- Gain credibility at the state and national level
- Build direct connections with decision-makers
Unlike many startup events, the focus here is not on pitches alone, but on real-world usability and impact.
Important Dates and Venue
Key Dates
- Event Dates: 27–28 January 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 24 January 2026 (till 6:00 PM)
Venue
- Vishvesharaya Hall, 4th Floor
- Administrative Building, AKTU Campus, Lucknow
- Startup stalls and registration: Ground Floor
Applications submitted after the deadline are unlikely to be considered.
Benefits for Selected AI Startups
Startups selected for AKTU AI Manthan 2026 will receive benefits that go beyond visibility.
These include:
- Live demonstration of AI-based products or solutions
- Certificate awarded by the Hon’ble Governor of Uttar Pradesh
- Opportunity for direct interaction with senior leadership
- Networking with Vice Chancellors, Directors, and academic heads
- Exposure to policymakers and ecosystem leaders
- Potential for B2G and institutional collaborations
- Strong credibility for future funding and pilots
AKTU positions this event as a launchpad for real implementation, not just recognition.
How Startups Are Selected
Applications will be evaluated on multiple practical factors, including:
- Relevance of the problem being solved
- Use of AI as a core technology
- Development stage (working solution preferred)
- Innovation and originality
- Social, economic, or governance impact
- Scalability and deployment readiness
- Team clarity and execution strength
The evaluation focuses more on what works today than on what might work someday.
Who Can Apply for AKTU AI Manthan 2026
You are eligible to apply if your startup:
- Is AI-based
- Is founded by students, alumni, or supported by faculty
- Is registered under DPIIT
- Has a working prototype, MVP, or deployed solution
Supported Domains
- Education
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Governance
- Smart Cities
- Cybersecurity
- FinTech
- Sustainability
How to Apply
All interested startups must apply through the official registration form:
Application Link: https://bit.ly/45hAmhI
Applications can also be submitted using the QR code mentioned in the official AKTU notification.
The deadline to apply is 24 January 2026, 6:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any registration fee?
No registration fee has been mentioned in the official notification.
How many startups will be selected?
Only 10 AI startups will be shortlisted.
Is this event limited to AKTU students only?
No. Student-founded, alumni-founded, and faculty-supported startups from across India can apply.
Where will the event be held?
At the AKTU Campus, Lucknow, in the Administrative Building.
Practical Tips Before Applying
If you plan to apply, keep these points in mind:
- Focus on showing a working solution
- Clearly explain how AI is used in your product
- Highlight real impact and use cases
- Keep answers simple and honest
- Avoid exaggerated claims
- Submit the form well before the deadline
Final Thoughts
AKTU AI Manthan 2026 is a rare opportunity for AI startups seeking meaningful exposure, government-level credibility, and real implementation possibilities. With only 10 startups being selected, competition will be strong, but the value of participation is equally high.
If your AI solution is ready to be seen, this is the right platform.
Apply before 24 January 2026, 6:00 PM.
Tags: AKTU AI Manthan 2026, AKTU, AI startup India, AI innovation event, government AI program, DPIIT startup
