We Are HackUConn
HackUConn is a ~20-hour marathon event that aims to bring together UConn undergraduate innovators across all majors and industry experts for a non-stop, fast-paced innovation competition. Students form groups at the start of the event and combine their technical skills and competencies with the resources we provide such as hacking supplies, 3D printers, laser cutters, and mentorship. The event is 100% free for all participants and funded by our generous sponsors. Of course, food and snacks are provided and always free!
2026 Event Details: Living with AI
HackUConn 2026 asks you to think about what "Living with AI" means? We want you to feel empowered: things aren't out of our hands.
We invite students to either create with AI or take on the challenges AI creates across work, creativity, and the ways AI is reshaping our world.
Solutions can range from architecture to apps and software, devices and prototypes, policy and research proposals, the only limit is student creativity.
FAQ
What is a hackathon?
A hackathon is an event where people from all backgrounds—whether or not they have coding experience—come together to create something new. It’s a fun and collaborative space where you can turn ideas into reality, learn new skills, and meet like-minded people. Whether you’re interested in technology, design, business, or just want to try something different, there’s a place for you at a hackathon! By the end, you’ll have built something cool, gained hands-on experience, and made valuable connections.
When and where is it?
HackUConn 2026 will be taking place in Werth Tower at UConn Storrs starting February 27th at 4:00pm until ~12:00pm on February 28, 2026.
Who can participate?
Undergraduate students of all majors at UConn are welcome to participate! Even if you don’t have any coding experience, there will still be plenty of opportunities for you to make a contribution and have a chance to win.
What is the theme for this year’s HackUConn?
HackUConn 2026 asks you to think about what "Living with AI" means? We want you to feel empowered: things aren't out of our hands.
We invite students to either create with AI or take on the challenges AI creates across work, creativity, and the ways AI is reshaping our world.
Will there be prizes?
Yep! Each team will have a chance to compete for scholarship and prizes!
Will food be provided?
Yes! Breakfast and dinner will be provided in addition to snacks throughout the event.
How do I register?
Please use this link that connects to Nexus to register
How do I go about creating/finding a team?
Overall team size is limited to 5 people max. If you are coming with a team, a team registration form will be distributed at the beginning of the event. If you don’t have a team, that’s no problem! We will have team forming events before we kickoff!
How much does it cost?
HackUConn is completely free! Not only is the event costless, but you will also receive some cool swag if you participate!
When can I start hacking?
Hacking can only be done during the announced hacking period. Also note that no prior work/projects can be brought in.
OPEN TO ALL MAJORS!
Previous Participants Majors: ACES, Applied Resource Economics, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Business Analytics and Project Management, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Communication, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Consumer Behavior, Digital Media & Design, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, Finance, History, Human Development and Family Services, Illustration/Animation, Industrial Engineering, Journalism, Management and Engineering for Manufacturing, Management Information System, Marketing, Materials Science and Engineering + Biological Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Molecular and Cell Biology, Natural Resources, Physics, Physiology and Neurobiology, Political Science, Psychology, Public Policy, Science Education, Sociology, Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, Statistics, Structural Biology & Biophysics, Undecided, etc.
PROGRAM HISTORY
The UConn Entrepreneurship and Innovation Society held its first hackathon, HackUConn 2016 Smart Cities, on April 1 and 2. Hackathons are an opportunity for designers, engineers, and other interested individuals to come together and innovate hardware and software solutions to real problems. These have become regular events at institutions known for their innovative nature and this event demonstrates UConn’s support for hackathons and their relevance to learning.
