Get ready to spend a weekend turning bold ideas into real prototypes. Whether you’re an experienced builder, a curious newcomer, or just excited about the potential of AI, this hackathon is designed to bring WashU’s most creative minds together to form teams, generate new ideas, and build solutions that matter.

Over the course of one weekend, you’ll have the chance to:

• Form interdisciplinary teams with students from across WashU to bring a new solution to life
• Participate in one of two tracks – either explore cutting-edge AI technologies and identify real-world applications OR a code-agnostic track presented by HackWashU
• Prototype rapidly and get feedback from experienced mentors and judges
• Compete for $10,000+ in prizes and the chance to advance toward a new spring opportunity through our partnership with Mayfield, one of Silicon Valley’s leading venture capital firms

You can attend as part of an existing team or come on your own and form a team with others during the event. No AI expertise is required to participate. Just bring your curiosity, creativity, and willingness to collaborate. Engineers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone with an innovative spark are encouraged to join. Please note: winning solutions will be built over the course of the Hackathon weekend. Projects already underway before the event begins will be disqualified.

This hackathon is the first step in an exciting new pathway for AI ventures at WashU in partnership with Mayfield. The ideas you start here could grow into something much bigger.

Space is limited, so register early to secure your spot. RSVP here.

Co-Hosted and Supported By

Skandalaris Center

Hack WashU

NRT AI-ACCESS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Hackathon?
A hackathon is a weekend-long creativity sprint where students come together to solve problems, explore ideas, and build something new, whether that’s an app, a prototype, a business idea, or a concept. No experience needed, just curiosity and enthusiasm.

Who can participate?
Everyone! Designers, storytellers, coders, entrepreneurs, and big thinkers from all backgrounds are encouraged to join. Great teams need a mix of skills and perspectives.

Do I need to know how to code?
Not at all. You’ll learn along the way, and there will be workshops, mentors, and teammates to support you. Come ready to experiment, collaborate, and create.

Is it free?
Yes! The event is completely free and includes food, swag, workshops, mentoring, and prizes.

When and where is it happening?
The hackathon will take place October 24–26 at WashU. All activities will be in person on campus.

Why should I join?
It’s a chance to meet amazing people, build your skills, and work on real ideas that could turn into something bigger, all in a fun, high-energy environment.