Hack for Earth

FAQ ❓🙋🏽

Hackathon

What is a Hackathon?

A hackathon is a competition in innovation. In a short period of time, participants called “hackers” work together in teams on a specific challenge. The goal is to create new digital solutions. Prior to the hackathon the specific challenges are formulated, and these challenges are often formulated into a question. A jury then picks the winners according to a set of predefined criteria.

In our experience, a hackathon can be a very powerful tool to innovate and break down silos. When people from different backgrounds meet and cocreate, magic can and will happen. 

The experience of co-creation builds trust and shapes new connections that cross borders between people, borders between organisations and borders between sectors in society. This is the power of hackathons.

Who can be part of this Hackathon?

All you need is to have access to a computer and wi-fi, and to be able to communicate in English. You also have to be 16+ of age. We are all about diversity, so we welcome people with all kinds of different perspectives, backgrounds, ages and competences. Everyone is welcome to apply to Hack for Earth!

Is it an online or a IRL hackathon?

Hack for Earth is an online hackathon, which means everything will happen online between Oct 22nd and Nov 7th.

What skills do I need to participate?

All you need is to be able to communicate in English, and have access to a computer and wi-fi. 

You don’t need to be a developer, a programmer or a tech person, you contribute with your specific competence and your experience. Of course we welcome traditional hackers like programmers, developers and techies, we need all kinds of competencies to solve the UN SDG’s! Most of all you need to have a passion for creating global change, to join this hackathon.

What language do I need to speak?

You need to be able to communicate in English.

How does it work?

You join our digital platforms after you have been approved as a team to compete in the hackathon. You will have support and access to mentors, workshops, cloud credits, livestreamed sessions, presentations, open data, statistics and other resources provided by the project management team and the partner community. 

After two weeks of hacking you turn in your solution either a technical solutions built on data, or concept solution not built on data, and the jury then decides who will win in each of the 7 categories. One of the 7 category winners will win the Hack for Earth Award.

What is the prize?

We are all about impact. This means that if you and your team win, your solution will receive a spot in Build for Earth – the unique acceleration program organized in collaboration with our Partner Community, a proven concept from the Government mission Hack for Sweden. 

We will work closely with you and your team, providing you with a wide range of tools and support to achieve our common goal: real solutions to the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals that bring value to the world and its inhabitants.

Hacker Questions 

How many team members do we need to be in the team when we start?

You can be from 1 to 30 team members.

Can I add or remove my team members after registration?

Yes, you will always be able to add or remove team members.

Do I need to have team members from the same country?

No. Teams with members from different countries are more than welcome to join the Hack for Earth Hackathon.

Does my team need to know English?

Yes, all team members need to be able to communicate in English.

Do I need to be in Dubai?

No, you don’t need to be in Dubai during the Hackathon. Everything will be online. But if you win in your category you will be invited to present on stage at Expo2020 in Dubai, but that is not mandatory to travel to Dubai. 

Can we work on two challenges?

No you can't. You are allow to register and work on only one challenge.

Can I change to another team and hack with them instead of my first team?

No you can't.

Is there a specific time to hack during the 2 weeks of Hack for Earth hackathon?

No, there is not. It's up to you and to your team.

Important dates?
2021-10-22 Hackathon starts
2021-11-07 Hackathon ends
2021-11-19 Announcement of the 7 category winners
2021-12-15 Prize Ceremony at Expo2020 Dubai 

More questions?

Email [email protected]

‍

‍