ORIGIN Hackathon is a space for people who want to build technology with meaning.

It is not defined by a single industry, problem, or tool. Instead, ORIGIN invites participants to explore where ideas begin, how technology shapes society today, and what impact our creations leave behind. Whether you are building an app, a hardware prototype, an AI model, a data visualization, a game, or a concept that blends art and technology, ORIGIN is about intention, responsibility, and vision.

What makes ORIGIN special is its freedom. There are no strict tracks or narrow challenges. Participants are encouraged to start from a question, a concern, or a curiosity — something they believe matters — and turn it into a technological project. The focus is not on complexity or perfection, but on clarity of idea, creativity, and potential impact.

ORIGIN is designed to be welcoming to everyone: beginners, experienced developers, designers, engineers, researchers, and creators. Teams can work with any technology stack they choose, from code and hardware to no-code tools and experimental prototypes. Collaboration, exploration, and learning are at the core of the experience.

This hackathon values projects that:

  • Think about the past, present, or future of humanity

  • Show awareness of social, cultural, or environmental impact

  • Use technology as a tool for understanding, improvement, or reflection

  • Communicate a clear idea and purpose

ORIGIN is not just about building something that works for a demo — it’s about building something that means something.

 

ORIGIN — Build what will remain.

Requirements

ORIGIN is focused on ideas with purpose, not on a specific technology or level of complexity. Submissions should clearly communicate what you built, why you built it, and why it matters.

What to Build

Teams must build one project that uses technology to explore human origins, impact, memory, responsibility, or legacy.

Your project can be:

  • A web or mobile application

  • A hardware or IoT prototype

  • An AI or data-driven system

  • A game, simulation, or interactive experience

  • A no-code or low-code application

  • A research or concept prototype with a working demo

There are no restrictions on tools or platforms. You are free to use any programming languages, frameworks, hardware, or no-code tools.

Your project does not need to be fully finished or production-ready, but it must demonstrate a clear idea and a functional proof of concept.

 

Each team must submit the following on Devpost:

1. Project Description

A clear explanation of:

  • The idea behind your project

  • The problem, question, or concept you are exploring

  • Why this project matters

2. Demo

At least one of the following:

  • A short demo video (recommended)

  • Screenshots or images of your project

  • A live demo link (if applicable)

The demo should show how your project works or what experience it creates.

3. How You Built It

Briefly describe:

  • The technologies, tools, or hardware used

  • How different parts of the project connect

  • Any interesting technical or design decisions

4. Impact & Vision

Explain:

  • The potential impact of your project

  • Who it is for

  • How it could evolve or be used in the real world

5. Source Code or Build Files (If Applicable)

  • A GitHub repository, code files, or no-code project link

  • For hardware projects, include wiring diagrams, schematics, or photos

Open-source is encouraged but not required.

ORIGIN rewards thoughtful ideas, clear execution, and meaningful impact — not just technical complexity.

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

13 non-cash prizes
1st Place
1 winner

Certificate of Achievement

2nd Place
1 winner

Certificate of Achievement

3rd Place
1 winner

Certificate of Achievement

Most Innovative Idea
1 winner

Most Innovative Idea

Best Impact Vision
1 winner

Best Impact Vision

Best Design & User Experience
1 winner

Best Design & User Experience

Best Technical Execution
1 winner

Best Technical Execution

Best Beginner Project
1 winner

Best Beginner Project

Best Use of AI or Data
1 winner

Best Use of AI or Data

Best Hardware or Physical Computing Project
1 winner

Best Hardware or Physical Computing Project

Best Storytelling & Presentation
1 winner

Best Storytelling & Presentation

Most Thought-Provoking Project
1 winner

Most Thought-Provoking Project

Best Social or Environmental Contribution
2 winners

Best Social or Environmental Contribution

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

Galene

Galene
First Lego League Team

Judging Criteria

  • Idea & Originality — 25%
    How clear, creative, and unique the core concept is.
  • Purpose & Impact — 25%
    The significance of the problem or question addressed and the potential positive impact.
  • Execution & Functionality — 20%
    How well the project works, including technical quality and completeness relative to scope.
  • Design & Experience — 15%
    Usability, visual clarity, and overall experience of the project or demo.
  • Vision & Future Potential — 15%
    The project’s potential to grow, scale, or be developed further beyond the hackathon.

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

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