Archive · 10 Sep 2026
Bessemer Tech Catalyst Connects Engineers With Real-World AI Challenges
Bessemer Venture Partners held an AI hackathon in Bengaluru.
More than 300 people took part.
They worked on real problems from four technology companies.
These problems involved testing software, airline operations, workplace transportation and financial assistance.
The event let companies see how engineers solve problems under time limits.
It also gave participants a chance to meet company leaders and learn about possible jobs.
Three teams were recognized, and four individuals received special awards.
Sarvam hosted an extra AI challenge, while Protectt.ai offered mentorship to selected participants.
The organizers hope this creates a better way for technology companies and skilled engineers to find each other.
More than 300 engineers, developers and AI enthusiasts attended Bessemer Tech Catalyst in Bengaluru on September 5, 2026.
Participants solved real-world engineering challenges from Bessemer portfolio companies Aivar, dCortex, MoveInSync and TBX.
The hackathon aimed to help companies identify technical talent through practical work rather than conventional hiring methods alone.
Three listed teams received awards from a ₹7 lakh team prize pool, while four Individual Spotlight Awards worth ₹25,000 each were presented.
The event also included an AI Lightning Round hosted by Sarvam and a four-week cybersecurity mentorship programme from Protectt.ai.
- Who
- Bessemer Venture Partners, MetaMorph, more than 300 engineers and four participating portfolio companies: Aivar, dCortex, MoveInSync and TBX.
- What
- The first Bessemer Tech Catalyst AI hackathon brought engineers together to solve real-world company engineering challenges.
- When
- The hackathon was held on September 5, 2026; the event was announced as concluded on September 7, 2026.
- Where
- Polaris School of Technology in Bengaluru, India.
- Why
- The initiative was designed to help portfolio companies identify and engage AI talent by observing how candidates solve practical problems.
- Organizer
- Bessemer Venture Partners, in partnership with MetaMorph
- Participants
- More than 300 engineers, developers and AI enthusiasts
- Location
- Polaris School of Technology, Bengaluru
- Participating companies
- Aivar, dCortex, MoveInSync and TBX
- Team prize pool
- ₹7 lakh
- Individual awards
- Four Individual Spotlight Awards worth ₹25,000 each
- Additional programmes
- An AI Lightning Round hosted by Sarvam and a four-week mentorship programme from Protectt.ai