Dates

Hackathon Kick-off: November 24 @ ISM

Core Build & Mentor Sessions: November 24–27 @ ISM

Final Submission Deadline on Devpost: November 27, midnight

Demo Day (Live Presentations): November 28, 9:00–13:00 @ ISM

Eligibility

Open to both newbies and experienced developers—no prior coding experience required.

Teams must consist of up to 4 members.

All projects must be digital products (web or mobile apps).

Work must be created during the hackathon timeframe (research and sketches allowed beforehand, but no pre-built apps).

Project and Submission Requirements

Each team must submit:

1. Link to deployed MVP (web or mobile app).

2. Pitch video (max 3 minutes) explaining the problem, solution, and demo.

3. Pitch slides (deck) used for Demo Day.

4. Written project description covering:

Problem statement

Solution overview

Tools & technologies used

Why it could grow into a valuable/profitable startup

 

📌 Additionally:

Select finalist teams must deliver a live, in-person presentation on Demo Day (Nov 28 @ ISM).

Only projects submitted by the deadline and presented live are eligible for judging.

Judging Criteria and Winner Selection

Judges will evaluate projects based on:

1. Quality of the Idea

Is the problem well-defined and meaningful?

Is the solution original or innovative?

Does it show potential as a real startup?

2. Technical Implementation

Does the MVP function as intended?

How well does it demonstrate the core value proposition?

Is it a working demo rather than just a concept?

3. Design & User Experience

Is the interface clear, usable, and visually appealing?

Does the design strengthen the value proposition?

4. Pitch & Presentation

How clear, engaging, and convincing was the pitch?

Did the team communicate both the problem and the opportunity effectively?

Great tips for how to win any hackathon:

Code of Conduct

All participants, sponsors, organizers, mentors, and attendees are expected to follow this Code of Conduct:

  1. Respect and Inclusivity
    • Treat everyone with respect, regardless of background, skill level, or identity.
    • Harassment, discrimination, or offensive behavior of any kind will not be tolerated.
  2. Fair Play
    • Projects must be built during the hackathon — no pre-built apps, plagiarism, or hidden work.
    • Be transparent about tools, APIs, and resources used.
  3. Collaboration and Integrity
    • Work honestly and give credit where it’s due.
    • Support fellow participants and create a welcoming environment for beginners.
  4. Professional Conduct
    • Sponsors and mentors must engage ethically and respectfully with students.
    • Organizers will enforce these rules fairly and consistently.
  5. Wellbeing
    • Hackathons are intense — balance effort with rest, and take care of your health.

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disqualification, removal from the event, or banning from future hackathons.