What is LiquidMetal.AI's Raindrop Platform?
Raindrop is the first purpose-built framework for Coding Agents, not humans. It lets you build and deploy production-ready applications through AI coding assistants. No wrestling with debugging loops and backend walls – just focus on building great products.
Getting Started with Raindrop:
- Raindrop Setup Guide – Start here!
- Full Raindrop Documentation
- Smart Components you can use:
- SmartBuckets – Intelligent object storage
- SmartSQL – AI-enhanced database operations
- SmartMemory – Context-aware memory management
- SmartInference – Optimized AI inference
- Raindrop Authentication Kit (WorkOS integration)
- Raindrop: $500 in credits for all participants - coupon code or other way to redeem will be provided in the welcome email upon Hackathon registration
AI Coding Assistants
Required for Building on Raindrop:
- Claude Code – Anthropic's powerful coding assistant
- Gemini CLI - Google's coding assistant
Claude Code and Google CLI work directly with Raindrop's MCP Server to help you build faster and smarter.
LiquidMetal.AI does not provide credits for any of the AI coding assistant tools.
We recommend using Claude Code, as Gemini CLI support is still in beta.
Vultr Services - Extend Your Raindrop App
Enhance your Raindrop App by integrating Vultr services for specialised capabilites.
Resources:
- Vultr Documentation
- Vultr: $500 in credits for all participants- coupon code with the link to create the account will be provided in the welcome email upon Hackathon registration
- Use Case Examples: Use Vultr Managed Kafka for event streaming, Deploy Vultr Valkey (Redis-compatible) for ultra-fast session management and real-time data caching or connect your AI agents to existing PostgreSQL/MySQL databases via Vultr Managed Databases
Voice AI: ElevenLabs (For Voice Agent Category)
Build conversational experiences.
Resources:
- Use a Free Tier of ElevenLabs to start building. Show us your working Raindrop app to redeem 2 months of Creator Account for free
- ElevenLabs Showcase – Submit your Voice Agent projects here too!
- ElevenLabs Docs
Inference: Cerebras (For Low Latency Use Cases)
Whenever you need ultra fast response times.
Resources:
- Up to 1M tokens/day per Model from Cerebras (list of models and rate limits here) - Link to create the account and redeem these credits will be sent in the StarterKit via email.
- Cerebras Documentation
- Workshop with Cerebras team to help you get started - TBD
Other useful resources:
* Netlify Docs for your Frontend deployment
* WorkOS Docs for Authentication (Free Tier - up to 1M monthly active users!)
* Stripe Docs for Payment Processing
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Inspiration
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What We're Looking For:
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Launch-Ready Quality
We want apps that feel real – with authentication, proper error handling, and polish. Think "MVP" not "proof of concept."
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Real-World Impact
The best projects solve actual problems. Whether it's helping small teams scale, making shopping more intelligent, or tackling social challenges – show us something that matters.
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Creative Use of AI
Surprise us! Use the resources you have in innovative ways. Push the boundaries of what's possible when you combine powerful infrastructure with AI agents.
Category-Specific Ideas
🏆 Best Overall Idea
- Think big, build bold
- Combine multiple technologies in novel ways
- Show us something we haven't seen before
🎯 Best Small Startup Agents
- AI assistants that automate complex workflows
- Tools that help 2-person teams compete with 20-person teams
- Intelligent automation that actually saves time
🎙️ Best Voice Agent (ElevenLabs)
- Natural conversation interfaces for complex tasks
- Voice-first experiences that feel human
- AI phone assistants, voice shopping, accessible tools
🛒 Best Agentic Shopping Experience
- AI that negotiates deals or finds perfect products
- Personalized shopping journeys powered by user preferences
- Smart price tracking and recommendation systems
🌍 Best AI Solution for Public Good
- Environmental monitoring and optimization
- Accessibility tools for underserved communities
- Education, healthcare, or social impact applications
💡 Best AI App by a Solopreneur
- Proof that one person + AI can build what used to take teams
- Side projects with real business potential
- Your unicorn startup journey starts here
⚡ Best Ultra-Low Latency App (Cerebras):
- Real-time voice applications where every millisecond matters
- Interactive gaming experiences with instant AI responses
- Live video processing that happens faster than human perception
Technical Inspiration
Smart Architecture Examples:
- Use SmartSQL for complex data queries that adapt to user behavior
- Combine SmartMemory to build AI agents that remember context across sessions
- Coordinate agent communication through Vultr Kafka event streams
- Use SmartBuckets for intelligent RAG Infused file processing and storage
Tips for Success
✨ Start Simple, Then Scale:
Get something working first, then add sophistication
💬 Engage the Community:
Use Discord for feedback, troubleshooting, and momentum
📹 Demo Like a Pro:
Your video should make judges say "I want to use this"
🏗️ Build in Public:
Share progress on social media – it's both marketing and motivation!
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Community & Support
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💬 Discord Community
Join the LiquidMetalAI Discord for:
- Real-time support and troubleshooting from LiquidMetalAI and Vultr
- Office hours with experts weekly
- Connection with other builders
- Updates and announcements
📧 Questions?
Email: [email protected]
🐛 Technical Issues?
Check the docs or ask in Discord – the community is here to help!
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Legal & Official Rules
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All participants must agree to the Official Rules which include:
- Complete eligibility requirements
- Detailed prize terms and conditions
- Intellectual property rights
- Liability limitations and dispute resolution
Please read the full rules carefully before submitting!
Ready to build the future? The championship awaits! 🏆
