Schedule, FAQ, etc. at www.hackthenest.org

Communications/ In-person updates @ https://discord.com/invite/JU9TY5BFU3

• Ambition
  Does the project tackle a novel problem related to the selected track? How big is the scale of the issue? How complex is the issue?
• Creativity
  Does the project use new/unexplored technology? How similar is the project to existing projects? Is the project a unique solution to the issue?
• Functionality
  How helpful is the project to the end user? How well does the project address the problem at hand? Does the project show polish and potential?
• Presentation
  Are you able to clearly understand the function and purpose of the project? Was the presentation/demo professional and well-prepared? Do visuals add to the explanation of the project?
• WOW Factor
  Was the project particularly amazing or creative? Did it go above and beyond?
• General Track
  No thematic restriction — build anything you like! Judged on creativity, technical difficulty, user experience, and polish. Emphasis on feasibility and potential real-world impact.
• Web3
  Projects must prioritize transparency, decentralization, and/or tokenomics. Clearly state what blockchain you're building on and provide deployed links (if applicable). Judged on innovation, security, utility, and correct use of blockchain principles.
• Social Justice
  Must address a real-world social issue. Should include data, storytelling, or impact metrics. Focus on empathy, impact, and ethical design. Judged on impact potential, clarity of the issue addressed, and inclusiveness of the solution.
• Cybersecurity
  Build something that enhances cybersecurity like Security Information Event Management Security Orchestration Automation Response tools Etc. No malicious or harmful activities Judged on security rigor, creativity, and usefulness.
• Beginner Track
  Focus on learning, trying new tools/skills, and completing a basic but functional prototype. Judged more on effort, learning, and creativity than on technical complexity.