Rules & Eligibility

Build new work

• All submissions must be net new code or functionality created during this hackathon. You can extend an existing repo or prototype if you build substantial new features here.
• Pre-built products or previously completed projects are not eligible.

Team composition

• 2–5 people per team recommended (solo builders allowed).
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration is encouraged — mix ML, backend, frontend, and product thinkers.

Ownership & rights

• You retain full IP rights to your code.
• By demoing, you grant AI Tinkerers permission to include footage or screenshots in recap content.

Demos only — no decks

• You’ll have 3 minutes to show a working demo, followed by brief Q&A.
• Slides and marketing pitches are not permitted.
• Fair play & professionalism.
• Respect others’ work and time.
• Collaborate openly, credit teammates, and uphold the builder-first ethos.

Making the Most of Your Day

• Start small, scale smart: Focus on a core demo that works end-to-end — you can always polish later.
• Connect early: Talk to mentors and other teams about your concept. They can point you toward lesser-known features or shortcuts that save hours.
• Document as you go: Record quick screen clips, capture commits, or jot notes — they’ll make your demo smoother and help judges follow your logic.
• Test live: If your demo needs an API key, model endpoint, or webhook, test it on a clean restart before you present.
• Be generous: Share what you learn with other teams. Many of the best hacks come from spontaneous hallway debugging sessions.
• Ask mentors for integration support — they’re here to help you debug, not judge.

Community Support

• Mentors roaming throughout the day
• AI Tinkerers organizers on Hackathon Message Board for tech or logistics help
• Bring your own power adapter, charger, and caffeine source

Code of Conduct

AI Tinkerers events are collaborative, inclusive, and strictly professional.
To keep it that way:

• Treat everyone with respect — zero tolerance for harassment or discrimination.
• Respect confidentiality; don’t share code, screenshots, or recordings without consent.
• No recruiting, selling, or pitching.
• Keep all demos safe for public sharing.
• Report any issues to an organizer immediately.
  Violation of these rules may result in removal or disqualification.

After the Hack

Submit your project:

• Upload your code to GitHub (public or private with access granted to judges).
• Include a short README describing what you built.
• Submit via this portal, complete as many sections of the submission as possible for more accurate judging

Stay connected:

• Follow @AITinkerers for post-event highlights.
• Join your local AI Tinkerers chapter for upcoming hackathons and meetups.
• Keep building — many top projects go on to production or open-source fame.

Remember:
This is about exploration, not perfection. What you build today might be the start of your next big thing.