The journey to the ELevate 2026 National Finals, hosted at Reva University, Bengaluru in February 2026 began over six months ago with qualifiers and regional leagues conducted across 9 cities and 50 villages. More than 10,000 children from government and low-income schools participated in mixed-gender football matches, original music composition and performance competitions, and building block challenges — demonstrating exceptional teamwork, resilience, and decision-making.

From this nationwide journey, 700 outstanding students emerged as National Finalists, representing 55 teams. In recognition of both excellence and potential, scholarships worth ₹25 lakh were awarded to approximately 200 national winners, supporting their access to higher education and helping remove financial barriers to their future aspirations.

What set ELevate 2026 apart was its focus on leadership beyond the field and stage. Alongside the competitions, students presented impact projects — real-world initiatives designed and implemented by the children themselves to address issues in their schools and communities.

Today, ELevate has grown into India’s largest mixed-gender football league, the country’s biggest competition for original music compositions, and a national showcase of creativity and innovation through building-block challenges.