The Build with Gemini XPRIZE is a global hackathon organized by XPRIZE in collaboration with Google. The program is designed to identify and spotlight developers, innovators, and entrepreneurs worldwide who can build scalable, AI-driven solutions to real-world challenges using the Google AI stack.
The competition runs globally and culminates in a live final scheduled for September 25, 2026, at the Moonshot Summit in Los Angeles, California, where the top five selected startups pitch before an expert panel of investors and industry leaders.
Applications officially open on 19 May 2026 and close on 17 August 2026.
How Startups Can Apply for the Build with Gemini XPRIZE
Interested participants must complete and submit an online application via the official competition platform before the deadline.
The application process includes:
- Identifying and picking a real problem worth solving in one of five key categories.
- Building a working prototype using AI tools from the Google ecosystem
- Shipping the product to real users in production and demonstrating actual revenue.
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After submission, applications are screened and verified by Hacker Fund, and the top shortlisted projects are invited to participate as finalists. Successful finalists will advance to the global live pitch event in Los Angeles in September 2026.
Startups must ensure they launch a real business, acquire real users, and generate real revenue within the 90-day competition window, as projections alone will not suffice.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the competition, startups must meet the following requirements:
- Build a project that uses Gemini AI technology (or other Google AI tools) as a core component of the proposed solution
- Address one of five categories: Education & Human Potential, Entrepreneurship & Job Creation, Small Business Services, Money & Financial Access, or Professional Services Access.
- Be a newly created project by the entrant launched after the start of the hackathon submission period.
- Applicants must be 18 years or older, or have reached the age of majority in their country of residence.
- Entries can be submitted as solo participants or as part of a team.
- Each project is eligible for a maximum of one prize
All applications are evaluated based on three equally weighted criteria:
- Business viability
- AI-native operations
- Category impact
Hackathon Benefits
Shortlisted startups will:
- Gain access to advanced Google Gemini AI models, developer tools, and cloud credits.
- Receive opportunities for visibility within the global innovation community.
- Build practical knowledge and receive technical support to scale their MVP faster.
- Global Final Experience
Winners Recognition:
- Earn the grand prize of $500,000, with additional substantial cash prizes for runners-up and category leaders
- Gain international recognition and brand credibility in the AI startup ecosystem
- Be featured across XPRIZE and Google communications and promotional platforms
- Participants should also note that they are developing impact-driven solutions expected to make meaningful societal and economic differences.
To apply, click here