FAQ

What is a hackathon?

A hackathon is a social ideation and coding event where programmers, researchers, designers, and managers collaborate to solve a problem and compete for prizes. It’s the ability to show how quickly you can solve the problem with an end-to-end solution. It will be an enjoyable event and at the same time, an overnight race against the clock to come out on top in the competition.

What type of ideas are expected?

While the concept has been defined by the event managers, in this case as “solar power platform”, the ideas expected from the team are how we can use recent technologies such as AI on Microsoft cloud/Azure and additional 3rd party data sources to drive insights to enhance solar power usage and go green.

How do I sign up?

There will be an application form to be filled out by those interested in participating. To apply, click here! We are accepting applications on a rolling basis, so the earlier you apply, the more likely you are to be selected as a participant.

Where will the hackathon take place?

Virtually on MS Teams! This hackathon is completely virtual, so you can participate from anywhere if you have a laptop and Wi-Fi. Primarily, the event will be conducted through MS Teams, and there will be volunteers from Microsoft who will be supporting the participants.

Who is organizing the hackathon?

The event is organized by Microsoft and Seton Hall University.

Who can participate in the hackathon? Is the hackathon open to anyone?

Everybody is welcome and can apply. You can have any qualification, be a working professional, a freelancer, on a career break, or a student at any college. We are looking for innovators, creative people, designers, data geeks, and startups. Read more..

Do we have to be in the United States to compete?

Global participants are welcome! Applicants need not necessarily be in the USA.

Do I need to pay to register for the hackathon?

No, you do not have to pay anything to anyone to register yourself for this hackathon.

Can my college submit more than one team?

Yes.

Can we create teams where members are from different universities and countries?

Yes, and participants in a team can be from different universities and countries. A participant can register only once, though. You cannot have the same participant in more than one team.

Should all team members participate in the event?

Yes! Every team member would be expected to participate in the event. This would help with better collaboration as well within a team. A participant need not be present for 100% of the duration, but at least 75% of the event is preferable. If a team member cannot make it or can only come later for the pitch, please inform the coordinators early, and we will find a way to manage.

Who will be judging?

The judge panel composition will be announced closer to the date of the hackathon.

How many people should a team have?

Each team can have a maximum of 6 members and a minimum of at least 3 members.

What is the cost of participating?

FREE. Free for spectators. Free for participants.

Is there support available?

Yes, Spektra is coordinating this event, will provide program management support for this event. Please reach us at microsoft-events@spektrasystems.com

What is the program/timetable?

Please check the agenda on the home page. There could be a few changes, but please keep a close tab on the agenda

When do I get the data information needed?

We will send you additional information beforehand and contact the team before the hackathon.

What is the problem we will be hacking to solve?

Details of the problem will be announced on the day of the event.

How are the winners selected?

There will be an independent jury selecting the winners with a rating system based on the following: ability to implement, financial benefits, presentation skills, creativity.

When will the winners be announced?

Winners will be announced on May 4th, 2022.

Details about the cancellation policy

You can cancel at any time before the event.

Will there be food?

No, the event is virtual.

Will we receive any support from mentors/coaches during the hackathon?

Yes, there will be support from the Microsoft team, Seton Hall University, and Spektra for the teams participating.

I’m not a computer science/engineering student and don’t know how to code or hack. Can I and my non-technical classmates still compete?

Yes, as long as you have passion.

What is the expected time commitment required by a team?

Each team is expected to be present for the 3 days of the hackathon. Participants will have a break-out session on teams and be required to participate during the key sessions (timetable) that will be published closer to the date of the hackathon.

Solar Power Platform Hackathon is a collaboration between Microsoft and Seton Hall University to drive an innovation mindset for students in AI & Data across multiple universities globally, giving them the opportunity to explore real-world problem areas.

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