- When
- Sat, Feb 6, 2027
9 AM – 9 PM - Where
- Olin College,
Needham, MA - Who
- Boston-area college students
- Format
- 12 hours, teams of up to four
The hackathon
12 hours to build something people want.
Teams of up to four go from idea to working prototype to pitch in one day. Projects are judged the way early-stage startups are: does it work, does anyone need it, and can the team make the case?
- 12Hours, kickoff to demos
- ~100Builders in the room
- 4Max per team
How projects are judged
After hour 12
Teams that keep going get mentorship, and Olin teams get a path into Catalyst grants (up to $1,000).
FAQ
What's a hackathon?
A one-day build sprint. You team up, pick a problem, build a working prototype, and demo it at the end. Here that's 12 hours, kickoff to demos.
Who can come?
College students in the Boston area. There's room for about 100 builders.
Where is it?
Olin College, 1000 Olin Way, Needham, MA 02492. Get directions.
How do I sign up?
Fill out the registration form. We'll email registered builders with details before the event.
Do I need a team?
No. Teams form around a problem at kickoff, so you can come solo and find people there. Teams max out at four.
Do I need to know how to code?
No. Projects are judged on whether they work, whether someone needs them, and how well the team makes the case. Teams need builders, designers, and people who can talk to users.
Is it overnight?
No. It runs 9 AM to 9 PM on Saturday, Feb 6, 2027.
Can I start building before the event?
Come with ideas, but projects are built during the 12 hours, from kickoff to demos.
How are projects judged?
Built, Wanted, Pitched: does it work, does a real person need it, and can your team make the case? Finalists pitch to founders, investors, and sponsor judges.
Is there food?
Yes. Food is provided through the day.
What should I bring?
A laptop, a charger, and any hardware you want to build with.
Is there a code of conduct?
Yes. Everyone at the event follows the MLH Code of Conduct.
What happens after the hackathon?
Teams that keep going get mentorship from Catalyst, and Olin teams get a path into Catalyst grants of up to $1,000.
What is Catalyst?
Catalyst is Olin's student-run founder hub. It gives grants up to $1,000, runs mentorship, and hosts workshops on talking to users.
Any other questions? Contact lcondearaujo@olin.edu
