FAQ

What is a hackathon?

A hackathon is an event in which computer programmers and others involved in software development, including graphic designers, interface designers and project managers, collaborate with issue advocates and subject matter experts on software & hardware projects. Competitors work intensively, competing to present the best solution in a given time frame.

What is "hacking" in a hackathon? Is it illegal?

There are a lot of different meanings to the words hacking or hack. When we use the words hack or hacking in relation to our hackathons, we mean "innovative problem solving" or a "solution to a problem or challenge". Our hackathons are NOT related to cyber security breaches or any other types of security breaches in any way and, therefore, are not illegal.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hacking

What are the ExpeditionHacks Events?

Blue Clarity, LLC has created a series of hackathon events in tech hubs throughout the U.S. to help inspire innovative solutions to common problems, expose crucial data, engage with niche capabilities and technological enhancements, and seek out positive social impacts. The intended outcomes are to engage passionate developers, and entrepreneurs with subject matter experts and advocates with ideas and passion for innovation, to help uncover viable solutions that can assist with customer needs and challenges.

Why should I participate in, be a sponsor of, or become involved in an #ExpeditionHacks event?

Sponsoring a hackathon is a great way to get access to the top IT and technical talent. Hackathons are quickly replacing career fairs and other traditional methods of recruiting and marketing. Additionally, for a 100-participant event, it’s like having your own personal developer think-tank. The next generation of software engineers, entrepreneurs, advocates, and subject matter enthusiasts and experts are coming to hackathons to create possible solutions, have fun, compete for prizes, learn new skills, and perhaps contribute to social good. This is definitely something worth being a part of, whether as a financial sponsor, data sponsor, platform provider, SME, mentor, judge or event volunteer.

What can I win?

Each event is different depending on sponsorships obtained. Make sure to check the event webpage frequently for updates, as prizes sometimes increase over time or additional prizes are added if more sponsorships are secured. Typical prizes include cash prizes, technology items and gear, gift cards, software subscriptions, etc.

What does an ideal team look like?

Ideally teams are 3-5 people, but rules can be different for each challenge so read the event website for each challenge carefully. We suggest covering your bases by including at least one or two “tech” people or coders, one front end designer, one or two people versed in the subject matter, a project manager and a presenter. One person could fulfill one or more roles but generally, the more well-rounded a team, the better the outcome.

I don't have a team or need more people for me team. How can I find teammates?

Once you register, you will be sent an email with a link to sign up for our Slack page. Slack is a great place to meet other participants and find teammates. Many of our challenges also include a team building session after the event kicks off where we help facilitate teaming so watch Slack for announcements about those types of opportunities.