Can’t I just have a hackathon event and skip the acceleration program?

Indeed, the temptation to focus solely on organizing the hackathon event itself, without investing resources and effort into an acceleration program afterward, may be alluring. Budget constraints and other logistical considerations often prompt organizers to prioritize the event over post-hackathon support initiatives. However, as we will explore in this section, this approach is not only shortsighted but also undermines the long-term impact and sustainability of the hackathon endeavor.

Organizing a hackathon event of high quality requires substantial effort and meticulous planning to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all stakeholders involved – from hackers and jury members to mentors and partners. The logistics of securing venues, recruiting participants, coordinating mentors, and curating challenges demands careful attention to detail and a commitment to excellence. However, the...