Build A Great Hackathon Website

If you are new to organising hackathons, partnering with a hackathon agency can streamline the process. Agencies like Kreativdistrikt offer comprehensive services from ideation to execution, including project management, logistics, and participant recruitment​. Hackathons are dynamic events where participants collaborate intensively to create innovative solutions over a short period, typically 24-48 hours. They are excellent opportunities for skill development, networking, and fostering creativity. For beginners, hackathons can seem daunting, but with the right approach and support, they can be highly rewarding.

Choosing a Hackathon Agency

If you are new to organising hackathons, partnering with a hackathon agency can streamline the process. Agencies like Kreativdistrikt offer comprehensive services from ideation to execution, including project management, logistics, and participant recruitment​.

Define Your Challenge

Before diving into logistics, it’s crucial to determine the goals of your hackathon. Are you aiming to solve a specific problem, foster innovation within your organisation, or build a community? Clear objectives will guide your planning process.

Choose a Theme

Select a broad theme that aligns with your objectives. Themes can range from improving customer experience to applying emerging technologies like AI or blockchain. A well-chosen theme can inspire participants and ensure their efforts are aligned with your goals​​.

 Logistics

Decide whether your hackathon will be onsite, online, or hybrid. Online hackathons offer broader reach and lower costs, while onsite events can foster stronger team dynamics and networking​​. Ensure the venue is accessible and equipped with the necessary amenities if you choose an onsite event.

Organising the Event

Workback Schedule

A detailed schedule helps keep the planning process on track. Outline milestones and deadlines leading up to the event, including tasks like securing sponsors, recruiting participants, and finalising logistics​​.

Build a Website 

Your hackathon needs an online presence for recruitment and communication. Platforms like Eventbrite can handle registration, or you can integrate this into your own website. Ensure the site provides all necessary information, including the event schedule, rules, and FAQs​.

Promote 

Effective promotion is key to attracting participants. Use social media, email marketing, and partnerships with local tech communities and universities. Highlight what makes your hackathon unique and any incentives for participants, such as prizes or job opportunities​.

Running the Hackathon

Onboarding Participants

Provide clear guidelines and resources to help participants get started. An introductory session can outline the event’s objectives, rules, and schedule. Offering mentorship and support throughout the hackathon can significantly enhance the participant experience​​. A perfect example is the last event with The Council of Europe. 

Managing Logistics

Ensure all logistical elements are in place, from food and beverages to technical support and workspace setup. For online events, choose a robust platform that supports collaboration and submission management​​.

Post-Hackathon Activities

Judging and Awards

Establish clear judging criteria aligned with your objectives. Criteria might include innovation, feasibility, and impact. Arrange for a panel of judges who can evaluate the submissions and provide constructive feedback​ ​.

Follow-Up

After the event, gather feedback from participants to improve future hackathons. Recognise and celebrate the winners, and consider ways to support promising projects beyond the hackathon, such as through incubation or additional funding​

Conclusion

Organising a hackathon for beginners can be a complex but rewarding endeavour. By leveraging the expertise of a hackathon agency and following structured planning and execution steps, you can create a successful and impactful event. Whether aiming to foster innovation, solve specific challenges, or build a community, a well-organised hackathon can achieve your objectives and more.