TechBuffalo and UB Blackstone Launchpad are hosting “Innovate Our Ecosystem,” a 72-hour Hackathon challenging UB student teams to develop technical solutions to accelerate the growth of our regions’ tech and start-up landscape.

Hack Choices: 

• "Tech for Community Engagement" Design a tech solution for boosting community involvement and shaping Buffalo's tech and start-up scene through interactive apps, gamification, AR experiences, etc. 

• "Tech for Community Connection" Craft a platform linking students, pros, tech firms, and schools, driving skill growth, mentorship, and networking in Buffalo's tech and start-up landscape. 

• "Tech for Community Amplification" Devise a tech solution showcasing how AI, IoT, blockchain, or other technologies can supercharge Buffalo's tech and startup sectors, drawing job seekers and tech experts to Western NY. 

Things to consider: 

• Do some research on what Buffalo’s tech and startup scene currently looks like. Ask your mentors! They are currently working in these industries! 

Hackathon Schedule:

Friday, September 15 

Location: Student Union Auditorium and Atrium 

11:00 – 11:30 | Speaker, John Hill - TechStars 

11:30 – 12:00 | Hackathon Intro Presentation 

12:00 – 12:30 | Team Selection 

12:30 | Hackathon Begins 

12:30 – 1:30 | Working Lunch 

12:30 – 6:30 | Hacking, Mentors Available 

5:30 – 6:30 | Working Dinner 

After 6:30 | Continue working in library, student union, etc. 

Saturday, September 16 

Location: Remote 

All Day | Independent Team Work 

11:00 – 5:00pm | Mentors Available via Zoom 

Sunday, September 17 

Location: Remote 

All Day | Independent Team Work 

10:00 – 1:00pm | Mentors Available via Zoom 

Monday, September 18 

Location: Student Union 235 

12:30 | All projects submitted to Devpost 

1:00 – 2:30 | Teams final prep, pitch practice with a TechBuffalo or Blackstone rep, snacks available  

2:00 – 2:30 | Judges pre-meeting 

2:30 – 4:00 | Judging, (Groups of 2-3 judges meet with up to 7-10 groups – judges preassigned teams) 

4:00 – 4:45 | Deliberations 

4:45 – 5:15 | Awards Ceremony

$2,200 in prizes

• Impact and Feasibility
  To earn maximum points, the project must demonstrate a clear and substantial impact on the selected problem statement. It is highly feasible for implementation, taking into account resource requirements and potential obstacles.
• Innovation and Creativity
  To earn maximum points, the project must exhibit exceptional creativity and innovation in its approach, concept, and technology. It introduces novel ideas or solutions that stand out and push boundaries.
• Presentation and Communication
  To earn maximum points, the presentation must be exceptionally clear, engaging, and well-structured. It effectively conveys the challenge selected and the team’s solution. The team presents confidently and effectively explains their project.
• Potential for Future Development
  To earn maximum points, the project must have clear potential for future development and expansion. It outlines a roadmap for scaling, improving, and evolving the solution.
• Technical Execution
  To earn maximum points, the project is technically flawless, demonstrating a high level of proficiency in design, coding, and implementation. All project requirements are included. The team effectively explain their project to non-technical judges.