AKTU AI Manthan 2026 Explained: Eligibility, Benefits, Selection Process & How to Apply

AKTU AI Manthan 2026 Explained

If you’re building an AI-based startup or working on an AI prototype and looking for real exposure, AKTU AI Manthan 2026 is something you should not ignore.Notification

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), Lucknow, is organizing AI Manthan 2026: Challenges and Opportunities in Higher and Technical Education, a flagship AI-focused program with a selection-based AI Startup Showcasing Zone. Only 10 startups will be selected to showcase their work in front of top academic and government leaders — including the Hon’ble Governor of Uttar Pradesh.

What Is AI Manthan 2026?

AI Manthan 2026 is an AI-focused flagship event organized by AKTU, Lucknow, aimed at exploring the role of Artificial Intelligence in higher and technical education.

A major highlight of the program is the AI Startup Showcasing Zone, where selected startups will present their working AI products, prototypes, or deployed solutions.

This is a high-visibility platform designed to connect innovation with decision-makers.

AI Startup Showcasing Zone: Why This Matters

This is not an open exhibition. Participation is strictly selection-based, and only 10 AI startups will be shortlisted.

Think of it as a government-level demo day — where credibility, clarity, and real-world impact matter more than flashy ideas.

Selected startups get:

1. A chance to showcase real, working AI solutions
2. Direct exposure to senior academic and government leadership
3. Strong state-level and national-level visibility

Important Dates and Venue

📅 Key Dates

1. Event Dates: 27–28 January 2026
2. Last Date to Apply: 24 January 2026 (till 6:00 PM)

📍 Venue

1. Vishvesharaya Hall, 4th Floor
2. Administrative Building, AKTU Campus, Lucknow
3. Startup stalls & registration: Ground Floor

Benefits for Selected AI Startups

If your startup is selected, you’ll receive:

1. Live showcasing of AI-based working products or solutions
2. Certificate by the Hon’ble Governor of Uttar Pradesh
3. Opportunity for direct interaction with the Governor
4. Networking with Vice Chancellors, Directors, and university leadership
5. Interaction with policymakers and ecosystem leaders
6. High-value B2G (Business-to-Government) and institutional networking
7. State-level and national-level visibility

AKTU positions this platform as a launchpad for pilots, institutional deployments, funding visibility, and strategic partnerships.

Selection Criteria (How Startups Are Shortlisted)

Startups will be evaluated based on:

1. Relevance to real-world problems
2. Artificial Intelligence used as a core component
3. Stage of development (working MVP or prototype preferred)
4. Innovation and uniqueness
5. Social, economic, or governance impact
6. Scalability and deployment potential
7. Team capability and clarity of vision

Tip: This is more about execution and impact than just an idea.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

You can apply if your startup is:

1. AI-based
2. Student-founded, alumni-founded, or faculty-supported
3. Registered under DPIIT
4. Having a working prototype, MVP, or deployed solution

Supported Domains Include:

1. Education
2. Health
3. Agriculture
4. Governance
5. Smart Cities
6. Cybersecurity
7. Fintech
8. Sustainability

How to Apply for AKTU AI Manthan 2026

All interested startups must register through the official form:

👉 Application Link: https://bit.ly/45hAmhI

You can also apply by scanning the QR code provided in the official notification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is AI Manthan 2026?

It is an AI-focused flagship program organized by AKTU to explore challenges and opportunities of AI in higher and technical education, including a startup showcasing initiative.

How many startups will be selected?

Only 10 AI startups will be selected through a competitive selection process.

Who should apply?

AI startups with working products, MVPs, or prototypes — especially those founded by students, alumni, or supported by faculty.

What is the last date to apply?

24 January 2026, till 6:00 PM.

Is there any registration fee?

No registration fee is mentioned in the official notification.

Where will the event be held?

At the AKTU Campus, Lucknow, in the Administrative Building.

Helpful Suggestions to Improve Your Chances

If you’re applying, keep these points in mind:

1. Show something real: Working demos matter more than ideas.
2. Be clear about AI usage: Explain exactly how AI is used in your solution.
3. Highlight impact: Who does it help? What problem does it solve?
4. Keep it simple: Avoid buzzwords; clarity wins.
5. Apply early: Don’t rush the form at the last moment.

Final Takeaway

AKTU AI Manthan 2026 is a rare opportunity for AI startups looking for serious exposure, credibility, and government-level networking. With only 10 slots available, competition will be tough — but the upside is huge.

If you’re eligible, prepare carefully and apply before 24 January 2026, 6 PM.

✅ Next Step

Open the application form, review the selection criteria once more, and submit your clearest, strongest startup pitch.

If you want help refining your application or pitching your startup better, you can work on that next.