The Event
Blank Page is a hackathon designed to help you stop vibing apps that will never see the light of day. At Blank Page, you or your team will choose ONE target person, build an app or hardware product for them, and present it to everyone else. Judges will give honest critiques on each project.
Schedule
YOU MUST ARRIVE EARLY. ARRIVE BY 8:30 AM. THAT MEANS 8:30 AM
The event is on a top floor, and the Microsoft NERD center requires us to remove our check-in booth from the lobby before the event starts. Please arrive by 8:30am so you can check in smoothly!
Check-in begins in the lobby. You must arrive early (by 8:30am) because the Microsoft NERD center requires us to remove our check-in booth from the lobby before the event starts. Once checked in, take the elevator up to the event floor and get settled.
The prompt is going to be announced at the event! The prompt will tell you roughly what kind of problem we want you to solve, but it's in no way restrictive.
Once you get there, we'll have about 30 minutes to form teams. Whether you came solo or are looking for additional teammates, this is your time to assemble.
This is an all day event from 9am-5pm. Once teams are formed, you just make your project the entire event. There will be nothing to distract you. Throughout the event, people with technical expertise and expertise in developing product ideas will walk around to help you.
Your presentation is an important to pitch why your project is important, and it's a big part of your score. Don't wait til the very last minute!
Show off your product to judges and fellow hackers, receive honest critiques, and celebrate what you shipped. The event wraps up at 5:00 PM.
GRAND PRIZE
To fund future development.
JUDGING
- 25% Is it niched?
- 25% UI/UX
- 25% How effectively does the product actually solve the problem?
- 15% Presentation
- 5% Plan for Future Work
- 5% Clear explanation of AI use
FAQ
What's the prize if we win?
A THOUSAND DOLLARS. Be prepared.
Is this hackathon for beginners?
This hackathon is designed for people with experience to learn how to make a product people actually want. That being said, we will admit a small number of beginners to come and learn.
Do you have to use AI?
YES! We explicitly reward teams who can articulate how they used AI in the development process. It's an important part of making a great product.
Is this an online or in-person hackathon?
In-person. Unfortunately you can't participate if you can't make it in.
Is there food?
YES! We'll have free food, but it's TBD what exactly it is. Make sure to fill out any food allergies on the registration form.
Do I need to have a team?
No, but you should! People skills are equally as important to making a good product as technical ability.
Is there a maximum team size?
Nope! All we care about is that you can make a product. Two or twenty people, it doesn't matter, as long as you can work productively together.
What if I want a team but don't have one?
You can find one at the event! There will be plenty of people looking for teammates like you!
When and where is the hackathon?
The event will be at the Microsoft NERD Center located at 1 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA 02139. It will run from 9am to 5pm on October 17, 2026.
How old do you have to be to participate?
Between 13 and 25
What time should I arrive?
YOU MUST ARRIVE EARLY. The event is on a top floor, and the Microsoft NERD center requires us to remove our check-in booth from the lobby before the event starts. Arrive by 8:30am.
What is the prompt?
The prompt is going to be announced at the event. The prompt will tell you roughly what kind of problem we want you to solve, but it's in no way restrictive.
What is the schedule for the day?
This is an all day event, from 9am-5pm. Arrive by 8:30am for check-in. Once you get there, we'll have about 30 minutes to form teams, and then you just make your project the entire event. There will be nothing to distract you.
Will there be mentors or help available?
Throughout the event, people with technical expertise and expertise in developing product ideas will walk around to help you.
How does team formation work?
Once you get there, we'll have about 30 minutes to form teams, and then you just make your project the entire event.
