What is Def Hacks Seattle 2019?

Def Hacks Seattle 2019 is the third annual 24-hour hackathon hosted at Microsoft HQ (on April 13th-14th). This year, the hackathon is co-hosted by Even, and thus has a large FinTech focus. We will be releasing two prompts based around FinTech and Even's API ($2,000 in prizes). These prompts will be released three days before the hackathon alongside our hackathon Slack channel, at 4:00 PM PST on Wednesday, April 10th.

You are allowed to brainstorm projects/solutions before the hackathons, but all code must be written at the event. If you are a current CS student, we encourage you to find a Finance major to join your team (and vice versa); however, this is not required. There is also a Best Hack category and a Best High School Hack category if you do not wish to compete in the FinTech challenge (the two prompts).

General Questions

What is a hackathon?

A hackathon is an event, typically lasting several hours (or even days), in which a large number of people meet to code and show off their products.

What should I bring to a hackathon?

Please bring your own computer and its charger, your ID, and power strips (recommended). The event costs nothing - meals and swag are provided for free! Also consider bringing a sleeping bag and/or pillow.

What are the rules around teams?

You can participate as an individual, or as a member of a team of 2-4 people. If you do not have a team but are looking for teammates, we will have a Slack channel at the hackathon titled #find-teammates for this purpose.

What should I do after I register?

After you register, try to find a team and start brainstorming ideas for the hackathon! You shouldn't start coding until the event, but feel free to brainstorm ideas, especially if a theme is released beforehand!

What is the hackathon's Code of Conduct?

This is an MLH Member Event, and this is their official Code of Conduct: http://mlh.io/code-of-conduct.

Do you offer travel reimbursement?

Unfortunately, we cannot offer travel reimbursement for participants.

What is the schedule for the hackathon?