FAQ
What is a hackathon?
A hackathon is an intense and fun collaborative marathon. Here, “hack” means to create something entirely new from things that already exist – think “MacGyver.” Developers, designers, data scientists, startups, joined by tech partners, have 48 hours to develop new products or services in response to a challenge posed by the hackathon sponsor.
Do I have to know how to code to join?
Not all participants need to be developers. You will need to demo a prototype, so forming a team that accounts for design, UX and code is a great way to go. You will have the opportunity to do this before the event on the communication channels we will provide, or during the start of the hackathon. You may also want to recruit colleagues with a broad range of skills to register before the hackathon.
How can I participate in the hackathon?
To participate in the hackathon, you will have to register online. Registrations open in September at https://hackathon.hubraum.com. They will remain open until the 17th of October 2019.
Is there a selection process for participants?
No! Please go ahead and register if you match the criteria we put on the website. We’re looking forward to having you :-)
Where is this going to take place?
hubraum
Winterfeldtstraße 21
10781 Berlin
Germany
Registered participants will receive all the necessary information ahead of the event.
Why should I join the hackathon?
Here are some benefits described by people who have participated in other internal hackathons:
"It’s a new way of working, in a more agile, interdisciplinary and collaborative form."
"Challenge yourself, learn by doing and improve your skills."
"Have fun and life-changing experience."
"Turn your knowledge into a concrete and innovative product/ service."
"Collaborate on a project that might be implemented in real life."
"Meet the industry’s key players."
How are teams formed?
Teams can be formed either:
- ahead of time if you are coming to the hackathon with people you know
- or virtually by posting on the dedicated Slack channel (access will be provided to all registered participants)
There will also be an opportunity to pitch your idea, your team or yourself onsite to recruit more team members or to get recruited onto a team in the morning of day 1 before coding begins for those who do not yet have a team.
What is the allowable team size?
Teams should have 4-6 members. No matter the number of teammates, make sure to cover all hats: development, design (UI/UX), data science, software architecture and pitch. One person can absolutely wear several hats!
What is the challenge?
Watch the official website for details on the challenges! We will update them along the way.
How does the judging work?
There will be a panel of experts to judge you on the technical level of your solution as well as your overall approach.
Here are the judging criteria:
Criterion 1: Innovation - Innovativeness of the Solution Approach
Criterion 2: UI/UX - Quality and Design, Usability
Extra points: Business Opportunity
Who is on the judging panel?
The judging panel will be comprised of hubraum’s and the event’s partners’ top management. Details on the jury members will be published on the website ahead of the event.
Are there prizes to win?
Absolutely! 10.000€ in cash between the best solutions, plus dedicated prizes in cash or gadgets from partners who want to reward particularly creative use of their tech.
What equipment will I need for the hackathon?
Bring your laptop, cell phone, and any other hardware you wish to use along with their chargers. We will provide power, internet, refreshments/meals, coaching, and support!
Is this an overnight hackathon?
It is! Feel free to code all day and night, but no one will judge you for going home to sleep either :-) You’re free to come and go as you wish!
PLEASE NOTE: THE COURTYARD IS OFF LIMITS DURING NIGHT HOURS (23-8H), PLEASE KEEP NOISE TO AN ABSOLUTE MINIMUM AFTER 22H OUTSIDE!
Will meals be provided?
Absolutely. Breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks will be provided throughout the entire event for free.
Can I use third-party APIs?
Yes. In addition to the available technologies provided by our partners, you are free to use any publicly available software and third-party APIs.
How can my friends/colleagues/teammates join?
They need to register at https://hackathon.hubraum.com. We have plenty of space and food, so the more the merrier!
What is the schedule?
Details to be added soon!
If I have any other questions regarding the hackathon, who can I contact?
Please reach out to julia@bemyapp.com with any questions regarding the organization of the hackathon.