Best build
The strongest overall product.
Prize details to be announcedPrizes &
opportunities.
Build something. Get something real. Winning is only one part of what you can take away from Hackyard Build 2026.
Build for
the win.
The strongest builds compete for cash prizes and special awards.
Best use of AI
The most thoughtful and effective use of AI.
Prize details to be announcedThe wildcard
An idea nobody expected.
Prize details to be announcedReal-world build
A meaningful solution to a real problem.
Prize details to be announcedBuilder to watch
Recognition for a builder or team we believe is worth paying attention to.
Prize details to be announcedFinal prize amounts and the total prize pool will be announced as they are confirmed.
Every selected
team gets more.
$100
AI Build Credits
Every selected team gets $100 in AI Build Credits. Use them to experiment, prototype and ship.
Selected teams may also get access to AI, API, cloud and developer tools from Hackyard partners.
Selected by Hackyard.
Built into your identity.
Get selected and you become a Hackyard Selected Builder.
Selected builder badge
Your selected status on Hackyard.
Public builder profile
Your profile can be featured on Hackyard’s official website.
Build 2026 credential
Shareable recognition for LinkedIn and elsewhere.
Builder directory
Be listed alongside the other selected builders.
Project showcase
Your work can be featured after the event.
The build can
open doors.
We are actively building relationships with companies around opportunities for Hackyard builders.
Internships
Exceptional builders may be considered for relevant internships from companies in the Hackyard network.
Hiring
Companies looking for strong builders can discover and connect with selected participants.
Founders
Promising builders and teams may get opportunities to connect with founders.
Investors
Exceptional projects and emerging founders may get opportunities to connect with investors and accelerators.
Hackyard
Exceptional builders may also be considered for opportunities within Hackyard itself.
A credible promise.
We do not promise everyone an opportunity. We create more ways for exceptional builders to be discovered.
Keep building
with Hackyard.
Selection does not end when the event ends. Selected builders become part of the Hackyard network.
Early access
Early access to selected Hackyard products and features.
Future events
Priority access to future Hackyard events.
Premium experiences
Preferred pricing on selected premium events.
Invite-only
Access to selected invite-only experiences.
Opportunities
Consideration for relevant opportunities from the Hackyard network.
Recognition
Continue building your reputation inside Hackyard.
Winning changes
your status.
Winners receive everything available to selected builders, plus additional recognition and benefits.
Winner badge
A permanent Hackyard recognition.
Project showcase
A dedicated showcase for your winning project.
Builder spotlight
Exceptional winners and builders can be featured through Hackyard.
Priority access
Higher priority for selected Hackyard opportunities and experiences.
Partner access
Potential introductions to relevant companies, founders and people in the Hackyard network.
What you
walk away with.
| Build | Get recognized | Get opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| Working product | Selected Builder badge | Internships |
| $100 AI credits per selected team | Public profile | Hiring |
| New skills | Project showcase | Founders |
| Real experience | Builder directory | Investors |
| New teammates | Winner recognition | Hackyard |
The real prize?
People.
You might come for the competition. You might stay for the prize. But the person sitting next to you could become your co-founder, teammate, first hire, first customer, mentor or investor.
That is why we built Hackyard in the first place.
Build. Get seen.
Keep building.
Applications are open. 14 September–10 October 2026. Free to enter.