EMPOWERING HBCU STUDENTS:
The BE Smart Hackathon Cultivating Tomorrow’s Tech Leaders.
As our event is nearing capacity, any further applications will be subject at review and approval by September 30th.
The BE Smart Hackathon is designed to equip students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with the necessary skills to become dynamic leaders in technology. This event offers valuable opportunities for participants to forge connections, receive mentorship, and enhance their résumés with meaningful experiences. By joining this Hackathon, attendees will not only engage in friendly competition but also have the chance to showcase their technical skills and gain practical knowledge in utilizing emergent APIs. A panel of judges will evaluate student teams based on the app’s feasibility, its usefulness for individual users, and the effectiveness of the underlying technological platform.
INFORMATION
WHO
We seek participation from all the nation’s HBCUsNProjects will be judged by BLACK ENTERPRISE, American Airlines, and leading tech experts.
HOW
Airfare, hotel, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and ground transportation within Dallas will be provided for all hackers to and from the venue. All hackers will receive an American Airlines Swag Bag and #BEHack T-shirt. The top three teams will receive additional prizes.
WHEN
Nov. 2–5, 2023, at the American Airlines headquarters in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Airfare, hotels, and meals are provided for all hackers, plus you’ll get a swag bag, #BEHack t-shirt, and valuable professional connections. Ground transportation within Dallas will be provided for all hackers to and from the venue.
JUDGING CRITERIA
IMPACT
- Would the app have a real social impact?
- Can it change the world, or help someone in their community?
- Does it solve the stated goal of the Hackathon?
INNOVATION
- Is the solution novel?
- Does it solve a problem in a creative or never-seen-before way?
TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT
- Did the participant(s) solve a hard technical problem?
- Did they get a working demo completed within the allotted time?