HackOTR

F.A.Q.

What is a hackathon? A hackathon is an event where people who are interested in technology gather together to create new, exploratory software and hardware projects. Hackathons are a chance for programmers, designers, and other creatives to form teams and build something interesting through intense collaboration.
What do you make at a hackathon? Websites, web apps, mobile apps, social networks, software tools, hardware hacks, wearable hacks—when it comes to hacks, the sky is the limit! You are only restricted by your own creativity. Hackers are encouraged to address real-world problems for real-world users. Hacks may focus on specific themes, such as health, education, technology, social causes, and everyday life.
Who can participate? HackOTR is an inclusive event. Anyone is welcome to register. You do not need to be a programmer, be in a startup, or have previous experience with hackathons. We also welcome college and high-school students who want to take part in building products or gaining exposure to a field.
How much experience do I need? We welcome hackers from all backgrounds. Whether you're a software developer at a startup, a marketer for a large brand, or a college student interested in design, we encourage you to register—and bring your experience to the table.
Do I need to bring a team? Absolutely not! Hackers are welcome to form teams prior to the event, but this is optional! We will have you find a team to hack with.
What stuff should I bring? Whether you're going in with friends or going to meet new ones, there are a few things that every hacker should bring: a laptop (and charger), a cellphone (and charger), a toothbrush, a change of clothes (optional), a pillow and blanket (optional).
How do I get a ticket? Click here to register through our Eventbrite page!
Can I use the hackathon to
develop my startup? No. Hackathons are designed to produce new concepts and products during a single period of intense collaboration. HackOTR is not a place for you to continue develop an existing business or for-profit project.

Who is organizing the event? HackOTR is hosted by The Brandery, a seed-stage startup accelerator program that's ranked top-ten in the nation. The Brandery is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Will the organizers own my idea / design / code after the hackathon? No. The Brandery does not claim ownership over any intellectual property—designs, branding, and code—that is generated at the hackathon. Hackers are encouraged to take their work with them after the event.
Who is sponsoring the event? HackOTR is sponsored by a number of local companies and organizations who want to see Cincinnati continue to grow as a center for tech. To learn about each event sponsor, check out the Sponsors section.
Will there be prizes? Yes! Prizes will be offered to teams with the best hacks at the end of the hackathon. Hacks will be judged on the following criteria: creativity, usefulness, usability, and delivery. All hackers will also recieve free HackOTR T-shirts, as well as swag from our sponsors.
Are there specific challenges for prizes? Some sponsors will offer prizes to the best hack in a particular area, such as geolocation or wearables. However, The Brandery will also offer prizes to our favorite hacks across all categories. Regardless of where you take your hacks, you'll still be competing for cool prizes—and bragging rights!
Who will be judging the hacks? HackOTR will feature judges from The Brandery's network of experienced mentors and experts, as well as from our sponsors. The mentors offer significant experience with startup ventures, product development, and technology.
Will there be (free) food? Yes! The Brandery will be providing free food, snacks, and drinks to keep you going during the event. We'll also be catering dinner, breakfast, and lunch through our local sponsors.
Will there be Wi-Fi? Yes! High-speed wireless internet will be provided by The Brandery.
What about parking? There are three parking garages operated by 3CDC that are located in Over-the-Rhine: the Washington Park garage, the Mercer Commons garage, and the 12th & Vine parking lot. 24-hour parking will cost an $8 fee at most garages. 3CDC is also sponsoring free parking at the dunnhumby Center garage (at 5th & Race), a 16-minute walk from The Brandery.
Can we take breaks or sleep in the building? Yes, hackers can take breaks. If you need to nap, you'll be able to find a chair or quiet space in The Brandery (but BYOP!).
Do we have to be present for the entire event? No. While we encourage hackers to spend as much time during the event improving their hacks, you are still permitted to leave The Brandery. We ask that all attendees be present at the kickoff to catch some important information. Afterward, you are welcome to come and go as long as you have registered with a team.
Do I have to work on a team? The Brandery and its startups find success through collaboration and teamwork. Likewise, HackOTR will be focused on team-based execution of ideas. During the hackathon, all participants are expected to form teams of three to five hackers.
What if I already have an idea or existing project? We ask that you'll leave any pre-conceived concepts at the door, in favor of team-based exploration. Everyone will get a chance to socialize and identify shared interests.