![[case]Hacks 2026](https://d112y698adiu2z.cloudfront.net/photos/production/challenge_photos/004/696/242/datas/full_width.png)
What is [case]Hacks?
Introducing [case]Hacks, Laurier’s newest student-run innovation competition. Formerly known as The GoldenHack, [case]Hacks blends the worlds of business and technology through a reimagined twist on the traditional hackathon and case competition format.
[case]Hacks is for everyone — designers, developers, engineers, business students, and first-time builders alike. Whether you're building your first project, pitching an idea, or exploring new technologies, our goal is to create an environment where students can learn, collaborate, and innovate together.
We believe great ideas come from ambitious people willing to take the first step. [case]Hacks exists to help participants develop skills, build meaningful connections, and create lasting memories along the way.
Who Can Participate?
We welcome:
- Students from all programs and experience levels
- First-time hackers and builders
- Designers, developers, engineers, and business students
- Individuals and teams
Whether you are technical or non-technical, there is a place for you at [case]Hacks.
Event Information
📍Location: Wilfrid Laurier University
📅Date: May 23–24, 2026
⏱ Duration: 24 Hours
Participants will work in teams to build innovative projects, attend workshops, connect with mentors, and present their solutions to judges.
Tracks & Themes
The case challenge will be released on Saturday at 1:00 PM. Teams will have from case release until submission to build their solution. Stay tuned, and join our Discord for the live announcement!
Prizes:
🥇 1st Place — $1,000 + exclusive coffee chats with Scotiabank
🥈 2nd Place — $500
🥉 3rd Place — $250
⭐ Mini Prizes: Best UI | Most Creative
Stay Connected
More updates will be shared through our official channels and Discord server.
Requirements
Two deliverables, uploaded through the portal by the deadline:
- Slide deck — Tell a clear story: what problem you identified, why it matters, and how your solution helps. Include screenshots of your prototype.
- Prototype screenshots — Show your key screens or user flow. Google Stitch, Codex, Lovable, Figma etc. all count. A short video walkthrough is optional but screenshots are mandatory.
File Naming TeamName_SlideDeck and TeamName_Prototype (e.g. GoldenHawks_SlideDeck)
Presentation Day
- 10 minutes to present, 5 minutes Q&A — the 10-minute limit is strict
- Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and set up
- Bring your own laptop. HDMI and USB-C adapters available
- Have your prototype open and ready before you start
Prizes
First Place
$1000 CAD cash prize + networking opportunity with Scotiabank recruiters.
Second Place
$500 CAD cash prize awarded to the runner-up team.
Third Place
$250 CAD cash prize awarded to the third place team.
Most Creative Pitch
Most Creative Design
Devpost Achievements
Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:
Judges
Umar Rasool
RBC, Senior Product Engineer
Tomisin Banjoko
Deals Advisory at PwC
Nolan Roncato
EY, External Audit / Assurance
Shahmeer Shahab
Deloitte, AI and Consulting
Asil Khan
Sunlife, Data Engineer
Sahil
Rayaan Khan
Full Stack - ScotiaBank
Ozias Cantos
SAS - Sales, prev IBM
Fadil Siddiqui
Senior Analyst @Scotiabank GTB
Abdullah Shahid
Lyft - Software Engineer
Hari Siva
Technical Consultant, ORACLE
Judging Criteria
-
Problem Diagnosis & Strategic Thinking - 30%
-
Solution & Feasibility - 30%
-
Innovation, Prototype & Use of New Tech - 20%
-
Presentation, Delivery & Time Management - 20%
Questions? Email the hackathon manager
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