Katy Youth Hacks 2023 is a global online hackathon that aims to inspire the next generation of developers. The event is a 2-day hackathon with an exciting set of prizes.

About Katy Youth Hacks 2023

By challenging participants to solve real-world problems with technology, KatyYouthHacks aims to inspire the next generation of developers. The theme for this year is sustainability, and will guide participants to take a greater role in fighting environmental problems while encouraging students to engage in computer science and tech development. The hackathon is open to innovators of all skill levels! This hackathon is open to middle schoolers, high schoolers, and college students.

Requirements

What to build

Any project that tackles sustainability, including apps, websites, robots, etc. Feel free to make low code/design only projects!

What to submit

  • Demo Video of your project in action (2-3 min)
  • Link to your project (Github, Figma, etc)

*note that cross-submission of projects is allowed, as long as the other hackathons you are submitting to also allow this. 

In order to maintain fairness, our intention is for all participants start their projects from scratch. However, prior to that, you are welcome to engage in brainstorming sessions to generate ideas.

Judging Criteria

  • Creativity
    Is your hack a novel and unique concept? Did it take a new approach to an existing solution?
  • Theme
    Does it promote sustainablity? Is it a viable solution to this issue?
  • Functionality
    Does your hack work as intended? Was sufficient time put into the execution of the hack?
  • Presentation
    How informative and compelling was your presentation? Did you discuss the process of building your hack and the challenges you faced?
  • Design
    Is your hack user-friendly and intuitive? Is it easy to use?

Prizes

  • 1st Place
    • JBL Bluetooth Headphones
    • Colorful Mechanical Keyboard
  • 2nd Place
    • Logitech Mechanical Mouse
    • Anker Portable Charger
  • 3rd Place
    • Bluelight Glasses
    • Gradient Venture Water bottle
  • Best Design
    • Fiji Quicksnap
  • Best Beginner Hack
    • Colorful Lightning Charger
  • Honarable Mentions (5)
    • NoStarchPress $20 Voucher
    • A free .XYZ domain for the first year ($12)
    • Free 1-month echo3D sign up ($89 value per sign up)
  • All Participants
    • Free .xyz domains
    • Echo 3D Subscription
    • Wolfram One Subscription
    • and MORE!!!

Deadline

August 11th, 2023 at 11:00pm CDT.
PS: Central Daylight Time is 10 hours and 30 minutes behind India Standard Time.

How to Apply?

Interested candidates can apply directly via this link.

FAQs

What is a hackathon?

A hackathon is an fun, sprint-like design event where people collaborate intensively to develop software projects.

Who can participate?

This event is open to all students!

How much does it cost to participate?

This event is 100% free!

What if I can’t code?

No problem! They will be hosting many workshops to help new hackers learn valuable skills and create their own original projects! Additionally, several of the prize categories are judged on ideation or design, rather than tech.

How many people can be in a team?

Up to six people are allowed on one team.

Click here to view the official notification of Katy Youth Hacks 2023