The Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center at the University of Nevada, Reno will host the 5th Annual Reno Hackathon April 15 and 16. The Hackathon is sponsored by Microsoft and University Libraries. The event aims to bring together students, developers and entrepreneurs to foster innovative ideas and code them to life in a 24-hour period.  The event is scheduled to kick-off at 11:45 a.m., Saturday, April 15, and end with winners announced at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, April 16.

WATCH AND REGISTER

Watch the video from the 2016 event, and register for this year's event by visiting Reno Hackathon.  

GOAL OF THE RENO HACKATHON

The event brings technology awareness to the community and showcases the power of collaboration by improving or creating a usable piece of software or service. The ultimate goal of the Reno Hackathon is to promote team building and get participants reinvigorated by working with the latest, cutting-edge technology and innovation. Participants in the event will utilize Microsoft technologies such as Azure, O365 and Windows platform to showcase a software, service or app on Windows, Android or IOS platforms.    

"We look forward to hosting the Hackathon and helping participants bring their ideas to life in our high tech @One facility," Dean of University Libraries Kathy Ray said. "We can't wait to see what they come up with!"  

Participants of all levels are welcome to join a team and compete for prizes. Special guest, Microsoft Technical Evangelist, Jerry Nixon will be on site to run the event and share his expertise and resources with attendees.  

PARTICIPANTS COMPETE FOR $2,000 IN PRIZES

There will be a total of $2,000 in prizes for four competition categories: Best game; Best Azure machine learning App; Best Azure App; and Best Universal Windows App.  

The judging criteria for each of the category is based on the following five factors. Each factor is worth 20 percent.
- Creativity: Is it new and valuable?
- Usability: How intuitive is it? Can someone pick it up and start using it immediately?
- Sustainability: Does it have potential to grow?
- Use of Technology: How diverse is it?
- Presentation: Was it organized, clear/concise, interactive and relevant?   

Participants will also enjoy product giveaways, food and high-octane beverages throughout the 24-hour event.  

"It is very important to highlight and promote Hackathon events to help engage and further inspire our local technology community," said Owen Roberts, general manager, Americas Operations Center for Microsoft. "These events also assist with encouraging people's interest in careers in science and technology which helps broaden the area's workforce pool."

MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2017 RENO HACKATHON

For more information visit the Reno Hackathon page on Facebook or contact  David Taylor, community relations manager, at 775-848-7995 or via email.