THE SMART CITIES HACKATHON IS A WEEKEND-LONG INVENTION MARATHON, WITH A UNIQUE MAKERSPACE TWIST: PARTICIPANTS WILL BRING THEIR IDEAS TO LIFE BY BUILDING PHYSICAL PROTOTYPES, USING THE RESOURCES HERE AT TVCOG.

Participants will be challenged to devise solutions to address some of the biggest issues facing urban areas. Teams will be required to build a physical prototype and develop a convincing pitch that will win over our panel of judges. 

To level the playing field, we will provide materials and experienced Maker Mentors, who will help teams build prototypes using our extensive array of equipment. Additionally, we will offer mentoring sessions on business essentials led by industry experts.

TVCOG'S HACKATHONS ARE DESIGNED TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR INNOVATION.

Anybody can have an idea for a new product or business, but few have access to the resources needed to make that idea come to life. Our Hackathon was designed to provide entrepreneurs an opportunity to practice their skills, as well as to connect with the support systems available at TVCOG and across the Capital Region. 

This competition will provide participants with the prototyping and fabrication power of a makerspace and the business expertise of industry mentors. At the end of the competition, all participants will have made industry connections and gained invaluable experience in prototyping, IP law and business planning.

Current (or future) startup companies are encouraged to participate. 

THE GRAND PRIZE WINNER WILL RECEIVE ONE YEAR OF FREE RENT FOR OFFICE SPACE IN DOWNTOWN TROY, THANKS TO BRYCE COMPANIES, ALONG WITH A YEAR OF TVCOG MEMBERSHIP  AND A ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP TO THE RENSSELAER COUNTY REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. OTHER PRIZES INCLUDE UP TO $5,000 IN CASH AND MORE.

• TBD
  Criteria to be announced along with challenges.