US Champions Online Hackathon
Build solutions. Empower communities. A free online hackathon for grade 6–12 students. No experience required — you'll learn as you build.
About the hackathon
Build a simple app, website, or prototype with an educational focus. Your project should help someone in your community.
Keep your idea clear and practical — a simple solution that works well is better than a complex one that doesn't.
No prior experience is required. You will learn as you build.
Participant expectations
- Choose a real-world problem
- Design a simple, clear solution
- Build a working prototype
- Focus on usefulness
A simple project that works well is stronger than a complex idea that does not.
Mark your calendar
Information Session
Learn about vibe coding and how to start building.
Proposal Submission
Submit a short description of your idea and plan.
Selection Notification
Selected teams will be notified via email.
Final Presentations
Present your completed prototype and pitch your idea.
Winners Announced
Top teams will be recognized and celebrated.
Prep sessions
Before the final round, you can attend sessions on:
- Building a basic webpage
- Python fundamentals
- Java fundamentals
- Turning an idea into a prototype
Judging criteria
- Solving a real problem
- Clarity and simplicity of the idea
- Functionality of the prototype
- Clear and effective presentation
Final round schedule — May 24
A full day of building, mentorship, and pitching.
- 9:00 AMCheck-in and team setup
- 9:30 AMOpening session and overview
- 10:00 AMBuild + prepare pitch (mentors available)
- 12:30 PMProgress check-in
- 1:00 PMContinue preparation and refine demo
- 3:00 PMSubmit final materials
- 3:30 PMPresentations begin
- 5:30 PMClosing and next steps
More than a trophy — real opportunities.
Top teams walk away with internships, mentorship, and national recognition.
Internship + Stage Time
An internship with Open Admits or a TEDx speaking opportunity.
Coaching Sessions
Choice of 2 free college counseling sessions or portfolio building sessions.
Sharp Tank Spot
A guaranteed spot in Sharp Tank to pitch your idea to a live panel.
Winners announced on Yahoo Finance
Get your name and project featured in front of a global audience.
Save your spot
Registration closes when we hit capacity. It's free — but spaces fill fast.
Register Free →Opens our secure registration form in a new tab.