BioNova Innovathon is a global call to imagination where science meets invention and ideas are shaped into meaningful solutions. It invites participants to look closely at the living world and rethink how technology, biology, and human creativity can work together to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
This initiative is open in its truest sense. There are no boundaries of discipline, experience, or expertise. A curious student, a software developer, a healthcare enthusiast, or someone simply fascinated by how life systems work—all are equally welcome to participate. What matters most is the willingness to think differently and build something that carries purpose.
The focus of BioNova Innovathon lies in problems rooted in life sciences and their intersection with technology. Participants may explore areas such as healthcare innovation, biological data analysis, diagnostic tools, environmental biology, digital health systems, biotechnology applications, and sustainability-driven life solutions. The challenge is not about complexity alone, but about clarity of thought and the relevance of the idea being pursued.
Participants may work independently or collaborate in small groups. The choice of tools is entirely flexible. Whether the solution involves software development, artificial intelligence, data modelling, simulation, or research-oriented design, participants are encouraged to select whatever approach best brings their idea to life.
The experience is structured to encourage exploration rather than pressure. Participants are given space to refine their thinking, test assumptions, and shape ideas into something coherent and impactful. Along the way, they are exposed to learning resources and community engagement opportunities that support their development journey.
BioNova Innovathon values thoughtful creation over rushed output. It encourages participants to consider not just what can be built, but why it should be built and who it serves. This reflective approach ensures that every submission carries intent beyond functionality.
By the end of the challenge, participants will have moved through a process of ideation, development, and presentation that strengthens both technical ability and problem-solving perspective.
Requirements
Each participant or team is expected to submit a complete and well-structured project that reflects both originality and depth of thinking.
The submission should begin with a clearly articulated problem statement. This section must explain the issue being addressed, the context in which it exists, and why it is worth solving. A well-defined problem forms the foundation of a meaningful solution.
Following this, participants must present their approach in a way that explains how the solution works. This should include the logic behind the idea, the method used to address the problem, and the role of any technology, scientific concept, or computational system involved.
A short demonstration video, ideally between two and five minutes, is required. This should offer a guided walkthrough of the project, helping reviewers understand both its purpose and functionality without needing additional setup.
All submissions must include access to the source code or project files through a repository or structured documentation folder. This should be accompanied by clear instructions for setup, usage, and understanding the system.
Participants are also expected to provide supporting documentation. This may include design decisions, technical architecture, datasets used, or any scientific references that strengthen the credibility of the work.
Additional materials such as prototypes, visual diagrams, or deployment links may be included to improve clarity and presentation quality.
Prizes
First Prize – BioNova Grand Innovator
The most outstanding project of the challenge will be recognised with the highest honour.
Official Winner Certificate
Digital Recognition Badge
Featured Showcase Placement
Community Spotlight Feature
Hall of Recognition Entry
Second Prize – Distinguished Innovation Award
Awarded to a project demonstrating strong originality and execution.
Excellence Certificate
Digital Achievement Badge
Public Recognition Feature
Project Showcase Listing
Third Prize – Emerging Idea Award
Recognising promising and well-executed innovation.
Innovation Certificate
Digital Badge of Recognition
Honourable Mention Listing
Community Feature Inclusion
Theme-Based Recognition
Projects showing strength in specific domains will be individually recognised:
Healthcare Innovation Recognition
Biotechnology Contribution Award
Digital Health Advancement Award
Environmental Biology Initiative Award
Bioinformatics Exploration Award
Each includes a certificate of recognition and digital badge.
Participation Benefits
Every valid participant will receive recognition for their contribution:
Certificate of Participation
Verified Digital Badge
Eligibility for future challenges
Access to community learning resources
Project listing within showcase gallery
Networking opportunities with peers and mentors
Inclusion in participant archive
Devpost Achievements
Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:
Judges
Jagdeep Singh
Software Engineer at Goldman Sachs
Bhavna Jain
Manager II , American Express
Judging Criteria
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FUNCTIONALITY
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Problem Solving
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Presentation
Questions? Email the hackathon manager
Invite others to compete
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