An open contest that goes beyond ideas, unlocking funding, development hardware, industry recognition, and a global stage for millions of engineers.
Researchers, students, makers, and technology enthusiasts now have an opportunity to showcase their innovation skills through the AIoT Design Challenge 2026, sponsored by DigiKey. The competition focuses on solutions that combine artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (AIoT), encouraging participants to develop practical applications for real world challenges.
The challenge offers a total prize pool and sponsorship support worth ₹6,00,000. Participants whose ideas are shortlisted will receive development boards and resources to help transform concepts into working prototypes. Supported hardware platforms include boards from Analog Devices, Arduino, and M5Stack.
To help participants throughout the development process, the organisers will provide access to technical resources such as board specifications, idea submission samples, project documentation guidelines, and curated learning materials. The initiative aims to support innovators from concept development through final project execution.
The competition will award ₹1,00,000 to the first place winner, ₹30,000 to the second place winner, and ₹20,000 to the third place winner. In addition, 15 projects will be recognised as “Most Popular” entries, each receiving ₹5,000. Participants who submit a qualified project abstract will also receive a Certificate of Participation.
Beyond prizes, the challenge offers industry visibility. Winning projects will be featured on ElectronicsForU.com through dedicated editorial coverage and author pages, while also being promoted across EFY’s digital platforms, which collectively reach more than five million technology professionals.
Entries will be evaluated by industry experts based on innovation, practical applicability, effective use of components sourced through DigiKey, project documentation quality, and demonstration strength.
“DigiKey is excited to sponsor the AIoT Design Challenge 2026 and support the next generation of innovators exploring the possibilities of AI and IoT,” says Ben Brookes, Director of Regional Marketing at DigiKey. “We are eager for participants to develop impactful, real world solutions that push the boundaries of connected technology and inspire innovation across industries.”
