GenAI Chip Hackathon: Tackling Chip Design Challenges with Generative AI
Hackathon sponsored by:
Cloud credits sponsored by:
Overview
The ICLAD-DAC 2026 GenAI Chip Hackathon is a competitive research and educational event co-located with the Design Automation Conference. Participants will use Generative AI models to solve chip design tasks across the RTL-to-GDSII flow, including RTL design, verification, and physical design. The hackathon includes two tracks:
On-Prem Track: Participants use resource-constrained local models running on laptops.
Cloud Track: Participants may use cloud-hosted models, including large-scale LLMs.
Both tracks include an in-person competition at DAC 2026 in Long Beach on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Participants must be available to attend in person to compete for prizes and must have DAC or I LOVE DAC registration.
Key Details
Participants may enter the On-Prem Track, the Cloud Track, or both tracks.
The Cloud Track includes a prior to DAC online phase and an in-person phase at DAC.
The On-Prem Track is primarily an in-person competition, with preparation resources provided before DAC.
Up to 10 Cloud Track presentation slots will be available at DAC based on pre-DAC online performance. Presentation slot selection does not affect eligibility to compete in person or receive prizes.
Separate awards will be presented for the On-Prem Track and the Cloud Track.
The winning On-Prem Track team will also get to keep the Qualcomm AI laptops used in the competition.
Timeline
May 14, 2026: Registration opens
May 25 - June 25, 2026: Pre-DAC online phase and preparation period
July 26, 2026: In-person competition at DAC 2026 in Long Beach
Full Details and Registration
Full competition details, rules, infrastructure information, and registration will be available on the ICLAD website.