Mandi, October 16:
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, through its School of Management, is organising the second edition of AIHack 2026 in collaboration with Japan-based AIFUL Corporation from October 16 to 18 at its Kamand campus in Himachal Pradesh.
The three-day hackathon brings together 200 participants to develop predictive analytics-based models and data-driven solutions to real-world challenges in the consumer finance sector. The competition carries a total prize pool of over ₹2.5 lakh, with participants working on real datasets provided by AIFUL Corporation.
Following the success of its inaugural edition in 2025, this year’s theme is “Predictive Analytics in Consumer Finance.” The initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements by enabling students to apply analytical and technical skills to practical business problems.
IIT Mandi Director Prof. Laxmidhar Behera said AIHack provides students with an opportunity to address real-world business challenges and interact with international industry experts. He said the collaboration with AIFUL reflects the institute’s commitment to strengthening industry-academia partnerships and promoting experiential learning.
Prof. Anjan K. Swain, Chairperson of the School of Management, said the hackathon focuses not only on developing predictive models but also on understanding business problems and creating practical solutions.
Daiki Machida, General Manager of AIFUL Corporation’s Group Data Analytics Department, said predictive analytics was becoming increasingly important in consumer finance and expressed confidence that participants would develop innovative solutions through the competition.
Japanese Experts to Interact with Participants
A team of data analytics experts from AIFUL Corporation is participating in the event, offering students an opportunity to learn about industry practices and emerging applications of data analytics.
Beyond the competition, AIHack 2026 aims to strengthen academic and industrial cooperation between India and Japan, while encouraging joint research, industry-sponsored projects and future collaborations.
The initiative also seeks to develop professionals who can combine analytical expertise with business understanding and responsible decision-making.
