What is the goal of the hackathon?

The rules are simple: You have 24 hours to use data science to create something - anything - that can make a positive social impact in the world. We’re looking for participants to create awesome data-driven projects that will have a positive social impact outcome.

What kind of projects can we take on?

We recommend 18 different challenges to you from our nonprofit and civic partners. You’re welcome to tackle any of these challenges, or come up with your own that has a defined social impact focus.

What data can we use?

You have the option of hacking on data sets from our nonprofit and civic partners (recommended for the challenges they pose to you), or using any open source data.

Should I form a team?

You can compete individually or as a team. There is no restriction on team size (although we recommend 2-4). Teams can be formed prior to the hackathon or on the day of. To help brainstorm ideas and coordinate team formation, we recommend joining our private Bayes Hack Facebook group or signing up to our Challenge Post site.

Can I start on a project before the hackathon?

You should be starting your project at the hackathon and not before.

What software can we use?

You’re free to use any software you’d like.

How should we submit our projects?

To be considered for hackathon presentations to our judging panel, we ask participants to submit their projects on Challenge Post. All submissions must be in before 11:30 AM on Sunday, November 16, 2014.

How does the judging process work?

To determine the top ten teams that will pitch their projects to the judging panel, we will be using the Challenge Post public voting system. The top ten projects that get the most votes will get a chance to pitch to the judging panel.