Build the Future
in 48 Hours
Join 2,000+ hackers, designers, and builders for the most electrifying hackathon of the year. Ship something legendary.
May 16–18, 2025 · San Francisco, CA + Virtual
2,000+
Hackers
$150K
In Prizes
48
Hours
120+
Projects Built
Tracks
Choose Your Arena
Six challenge tracks. One mission: build something that matters.
AI & Machine Learning
Build intelligent systems, LLM-powered apps, and autonomous agents that push the boundaries of what's possible.
Climate & Sustainability
Engineer solutions for climate change, clean energy, and a more sustainable planet.
Health & Biotech
Reimagine healthcare, diagnostics, and wellness with cutting-edge technology.
Web3 & Security
Decentralized apps, cryptography, and next-gen security infrastructure.
Gaming & XR
Immersive experiences, AR/VR worlds, and the future of interactive entertainment.
Smart Cities
Urban tech, mobility, and infrastructure solutions for the cities of tomorrow.
Schedule
48 Hours of Magic
Check-in & Breakfast
LogisticsOpening Ceremony & Keynote
Main StageHacking Begins 🚀
HackingMentor Office Hours
MentorshipWorkshop: Ship with AI APIs
WorkshopMid-Hack Check-in
HackingSponsor Challenges Announced
PrizesSubmissions Close
DeadlineProject Demos Begin
DemosFinalist Presentations
Main StageAwards Ceremony 🏆
Main StageClosing Party
SocialPrizes
$150K+ Up for Grabs
Top teams take home cash, credits, and connections that launch careers.
Grand Prize
$50,000
- ✦ Cash award
- ✦ VC introductions
- ✦ Incubator access
- ✦ Trophy + swag
Runner Up
$20,000
- ✦ Cash award
- ✦ Mentor sessions
- ✦ Cloud credits
- ✦ Trophy + swag
Third Place
$10,000
- ✦ Cash award
- ✦ Cloud credits
- ✦ Swag bundle
Special Category Awards
Best AI Project
$5,000 + API credits
Best Climate Hack
$5,000 + grant access
Best Solo Hacker
$3,000 cash
Best Design
$2,000 + tools
Sponsors
Backed by the Best
World-class companies fueling the next generation of builders.
Platinum
Gold
Silver
Ready to Build?
Applications are free and open to everyone. Students, professionals, first-timers welcome.
Apply for HackFest 2025 →No experience required · Teams of 1–4 · Free food & swag
