McGill Data Network Hackathon 2026

🚀 Build AI : Build the FutureThe McGill Data Network (MDN) x Boundary AIStop dreaming about the future—build it in four hours. The McGill Data Network is hosting a high-impact, fast-paced sprint designed to turn ambitious ideas into functional AI prototypes. Whether you're a seasoned coder or a data enthusiast, this is your chance to automate the world around you and kickstart your career.🎯 The Challenge: Automate. Optimize. Innovate.Your mission is to design an AI-powered system that replaces, enhances, or optimizes a manual task. Whether it's streamlining a complex workflow or automating a daily decision-making process, the goal is simple:Build a solution that makes human effort more efficient.📅 Event Schedule (Thursday, April 2nd)Location:McGill University |Time:12:00 PM – 5:00 PMTimeActivityWhat's Happening12:00 PMKick-offTheme reveal and prompt details.12:30 PMDevelopment Phase3.5 hours of high-speed hacking. Judges will be roaming for feedback!4:00 PMSubmission DeadlineHard stop. All projects must be on Devpost.4:10 PMRound 1: Initial JudgingThe Jury shortlists theTop 5 Teams.4:30 PMRound 2: Final PitchesThe Top 5 deliver a3-minute "Live Demo"pitch.4:45 PMAwards & ClosingWinners announced and internship opportunities discussed.⚖️ Rules & EligibilityOpen to All Majors:If you can build it, we want to see it.Quebec University Students:Must be currently enrolled in a Quebec institution.Teams:Register as an individual or in teams of up to 3.The Constraint:Your solutionmustuse AI to optimize a manual task.🛠️ Judging CriteriaInnovation:How creative is the automation?Impact:How much time/effort does the solution actually save?Technical Execution:How well does the AI prototype function under pressure?The Pitch:Can you sell your vision in 180 seconds?