About the Challenge

This is about thinking like real entrepreneurs. We want you to step into the role of problem solvers, innovators, and builders. The challenge is simple but hard to execute: identify a real problem, then create a solution bold enough to make an impact. Don’t wait for us to hand you the idea. You’re the ones who define the problem and prove you can solve it. Choose one of these sectors for our Startathon:

  • Transportation
  • Infrastructure
  • Education

Your task is clear. Spot the problem. Build the solution.

 

Join Discord

The LUMA Hackathon 2025 is a fully virtual hackathon designed to inspire and empower students to think like builders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. This is your opportunity to turn bold ideas into real-world impact and compete for $2,000 cash and over $10,000 worth of sponsor software, tools, and subscriptions.

To participate, you must register at joinluma.org and join our official Discord, where all announcements, mentorship, and event logistics will take place.

What You’ll Be Doing

Participants will be challenged to create innovative solutions based on a surprise theme revealed at the start of the competition. You and your team will have a few days to:

  • Build a prototype or product

  • Craft a compelling pitch

  • Submit your materials for judging

Submission guidelines will be shared in Discord.

After the submission deadline, a panel of experienced judges will review all entries. The top 5 finalist teams will advance to the live pitch round, where they’ll present to real entrepreneurs, engineers, and innovators.

The most outstanding team will win the 🏆 $2,000 Grand Prize, along with exclusive sponsor awards from Wolfram, NordVPN, CodeCrafter, Flatlogic, and more — plus mentorship and networking opportunities after the event.

At LUMA, our mission is to create 100% free, high-quality learning experiences for the next generation of creators, coders, and entrepreneurs.
The LUMA Hackathon isn’t just a competition — it’s a launchpad for student innovation, real-world skill-building, and future startups.

Requirements

To be eligible for judging, each team must submit the following by the deadline:

✅ 1. GitHub Repository

A public GitHub repo containing:

  • Your codebase or mockups (if applicable)

  • Any design assets, slide decks, or relevant materials

  • A clear README that explains your idea, how it works, and how to run or view the project (if technical)

✅ 2. 60-Second Demo Video

A short video that visually demonstrates your product or prototype.
This can be a screen recording, animation, or voiceover walkthrough—whatever best showcases your idea in action.

✅ 3. 5-Minute Pitch Presentation (Pre-recorded)

A compelling, well-structured presentation that explains:

  • Your team’s idea

  • The problem you’re solving

  • Your solution and how it works

  • Who it helps and why it matters

  • How it could grow or be implemented
    Slides are required. You may include multiple speakers or have one representative present.

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$2,000+ in prizes
+ other prizes
Grand Winner
$1,000 in cash
1 winner

Second Place
$500 in cash
1 winner

Third Place
$300 in cash
1 winner

Fourth place
$100 in cash
1 winner

Fifth Place
$100 in cash
1 winner

First to Fifth place: over $10k+ in subscriptions — exact split still being decided.
5 winners

First to Fifth place: over $10k+ in subscriptions — exact split still being decided.

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

TBD

Judging Criteria

  • In Discord
    Check Discord

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

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