Hard Hack is UC San Diego’s premier hardware-focused hackathon, bringing together engineers, developers, and innovators to build tech for tomorrow. This year’s theme, "Zombie Apocalypse" challenges participants to develop solutions for survival, defense and reconstruction.

What makes Hard Hack special?

  • Hardware-focused: Unlike traditional hackathons, Hard Hack emphasizes hardware innovation. Teams will have access to development boards, sensors, and other tools to bring their ideas to life.
  • Industry Support: Engage with mentors from top tech companies, attend exclusive workshops, and receive feedback from industry professionals.
  • Beginner-Friendly: Whether you're a seasoned hacker or a first-timer, our team and mentors will support you every step of the way!

Requirements

Submission Requirements

To be eligible for judging, teams must submit the following on Devpost:
✅ Project Name & Description – Explain the problem you’re solving, how the problem ties to our home improvement team / selected track, and your approach.
✅ Code Documentation – Provide a GitHub link or equivalent. List any libraries, API, platforms etc. you utilized
✅ Hardware Diagram – Provide a sketch of your hardware wiring and annotate the parts used.
✅ Presentation – A presentation to present to judges for the 3-minute presentation. Upload as PDF. Please use this template and make a copy of this: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1izqurHy-yeRRhhSTXM2-bo_JchGb5ZNglOw05Dd6C9k/edit?usp=sharing

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$300 in prizes
Best Survival Hack - Amazon Gift Cards
$300 in cash
1 winner

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

Karcher Morris

Karcher Morris

Judging Criteria

  • Technical Implementation
    Scores range from minimum functionality (1) to professional execution (5)
  • Creativity / Originality
    From a direct implementation of a common tutorial or a well-known concept(1) to truly groundbreaking (5).
  • Impact / Problem Fit
    From solving a minor problem (1) to addressing a critical global issue(5).
  • Use of Hardware
    From superficial use (1) to masterful optimization (2).
  • Presentation / Demo
    From pitch is confusing (1) to inspiring and professional.

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

Invite others to compete

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.