Frequently asked questions

What is a GitHub Hackathon?

GitHub Hackathons are focused on technology solutions usually underpinned by code. Hackathons are focussed on identifying problems and coming up with creative solutions, presenting a proof of concept or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for that solution.

Where are they located?

Many of the hackathons showcased here are available online. You can compete anywhere in the world. Some however are located in various cities around the world. You'll need to check each one to see where the hackathon is located.

How can I have my hackathon showcased?

You can submit your hackathon to a GitHub hackathon. If your hackathon fits into the criteria, it'll be showcased. Apply here.

What's the criteria to be a GitHub Hackathon?

The ideas developed during the hackathon must be available in a public GitHub repository. The hackathon must also have a code of conduct. Read more about the eligibility criteria here.

I want sponsorship for my hackathon. How can I get it?

GitHub provides sponsorship to all first time university hackathons through our partnership with Major League Hackathon. If you're a student, then apply for a grant.

Can I work as a team or with other people?

We always encourage collaboration when coding and building ideas. Feel free to work with others, help one another, and build together. Just remember, you’ll need to submit your Action individually.

I want to use GitHub for our hackathon. What can I do?

GitHub teams is provided for free to anyone. You can easily setup a GitHub account and get started today. Other ways to use GitHub for your hackathon project could be using GitHub Pages to build your website. Check out more information on our documentation page about GitHub Pages.

I'm new to GitHub and I want to get started. What can I do?

First up, you'll need to open a GitHub account. This is completely free. Next, if you want to know more about using GitHub and how to get started, check out our Learning Lab for free tutorials.

I'm a hackathon organse. What resources are available for me?

We have lots of resources, tips, and tricks to get you started with your hackathon. Check out our tips and tricks page for lots of information. There's also the resources page where you can find lots of links for helpful platforms, information, and more.

Does my hackathon need to have a themed?

It's up to you whether you want your hackathon to have a theme. Remember, hackathons are about using code to solve problems, build new ideas, and learn together. Read more about hackathon themes on our tips and tricks page.

Should I have an in-person or online hackathon?

This is entirely up to you. There are pros and cons to each type of hackathon. Read more about them on our tips and tricks page.

What are you supposed to do in a hackathon?

There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to hackathons. You can have individual hackathons, team hackathons. Then there's presentations and more. All these decisions will depend on why you're running a hackathon. Read more about ideas on hackathon format on our tips and tricks page. You'll need to read up on the criteria for each hackathon showcased here on the site. Some will allow for anyone to participate and others will have specific requirements; for example, a student only hackathon.

How long should a hackathon be?

You can choose to have a long hackathon, a short one. This will depend on why you're running the hackathon. Read more about hackathon legnths on our tips and tricks page.

Who can participate in a hackathon?

You'll need to check each hackathon showcased here to see if you're eligible for the hackathon. Some hackathons have requirements, and others are open to anyone.

I've heard of different hackathon 'roles'. What are these?

There are three main hackathon roles. The coder, the innovator, and the designer. Each work together to prioritise and cover multiple responsibilities. Read more about the three hackathon roles on our tips and tricks page.

Can I sponsor the hackathons here?

If you'd like to sponsor any of the hackathons here, you'll need to get in touch with each of the organisers of the hackathon. Click the link on each hackathon showcase to find out more information.

What usually happens at the end of a hackathon?

Depending on the hackathon you're attending or running, various things can happen at the end of a hackathon. Read more about finalising a hackathon on our tips and tricks page. As for the hackathons showcase here, as a requirement, all their ideas and projects will be available in a GitHub public repo.

Where can I find a good code of conduct?

You can check out our code of conduct for inspiration. There are also lots of open source codes of conduct available, including the GitHub Code of Conduct.