If you’re a college student with big ideas and an interest in AI, innovation, or problem-solving, AMD RYZEN Slingshot 2026 is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. Designed especially for students, Slingshot is a national startup idea challenge that helps young innovators turn ideas into impactful AI-powered solutions.

This blog breaks down everything freshers need to know—eligibility, themes, journey, timeline, and why you should participate.

What is AMD RYZEN Slingshot?

Slingshot is a premier national innovation challenge powered by AMD, aimed at encouraging students to build AI-driven solutions for real-world problems. Participants receive mentorship, attend workshops, and pitch their ideas to industry experts—making it a perfect platform for beginners and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Who Can Participate?

Slingshot is beginner-friendly and open to students from all backgrounds.

Eligibility Criteria

• Undergraduate and postgraduate students

• Must be enrolled in Indian colleges or universities

• 18 years or older

• Teams of up to 3 students

• Open to students from technical, design, and business fields

Freshers are highly encouraged to participate—no prior startup or hackathon experience required.

Innovation Themes You Can Choose From

Participants can submit ideas under any of the following themes:

• Generative AI for Everyone

• AI in Education & Skilling

• Future of Work & Productivity

• Sustainable AI & Green Tech

• AI for Social Good

• AI + Cybersecurity & Privacy

• AI in Consumer Experiences

• AI for Smart Cities

• Open Innovation

You can pick a theme that aligns with your interests or college specialization.

Your Journey in Slingshot

Once you register, your journey unfolds in structured stages:

Step 1: Registration

Form a team and sign up with like-minded innovators who share your passion.

Step 2: Idea Submission

Select a theme and submit your idea, explaining:

• The problem

• Your AI-based solution

• The potential impact

Step 3: Slingshot Campus Days

A two-day offline event with:

• Day 1: Ideathon – Open ideation for non-shortlisted teams

• Day 2: Regional Demo Day – Shortlisted teams pitch to expert juries

Step 4: National Grand Finale

Top teams from across India compete nationally and pitch their ideas to become Slingshot champions.

Slingshot Campus Days – City Schedule (2026)

Complete Timeline (Tentative)

• Registration: 09 Jan – 22 Feb 2026

• Prototype Submission: 09 Jan – 01 March 2026

• Introductory Session: 29 Jan 2026

• AMA Session: 13 Feb 2026

• Shortlist Announcement: 16 Mar 2026

• RSVP & Briefing: 16 Mar – 26 Mar 2026

• Slingshot Campus Days: 28 Mar – 28 Apr 2026

• Virtual Mentorship & Pitch Refinement: 06 May 2026

• National Grand Finale: 23 May 2026

Why Freshers Should Participate

• No prior experience needed

• Learn AI, innovation & pitching skills

• Network with students and industry experts

• National-level recognition

• Exposure to AMD’s AI ecosystem

• Boosts resumes, internships, and startup readiness

AMD RYZEN Slingshot 2026 is more than just a competition—it’s a launchpad for freshers to explore AI, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re from engineering, management, or design, this challenge gives you the platform to dream big and build bigger.

If you’re a fresher looking to stand out, Slingshot is your chance.