A hackathon is an event in which computer programmers, developers and technologists join others in the field of software development, like graphic designers, interface designers, project managers to collaborate intensively on projects. Hackathons typically last between a day and a week in length and are often held over a weekend. Some hackathons are intended simply for educational or social purposes, although in many cases the goal is to create usable solutions. Hackathons tend to have a specific focus, such as furthering a purpose or using a specific programming language used, the operating system, an application, an API, the subject and the demographic group of the programmers. In other cases, there is no restriction on the type of software being created.

The word "hackathon" is formed by combining the words "hack" and "marathon." Hackathons are not intended to perform illegal activities around computer networks. Software developers widely see hacking as referring to a quick, playful, creative programming solution to a problem - taking the ‘road less traveled’ to reach a destination in a new or different way.

Historically, hackathons have been exceptional opportunities for hands-on, creative problem solving of difficult technological challenges. Global hackathons, or “mass collaborations”, take this opportunity to another dimension, by connecting an international community around a common vision to meet common needs in their communities.

We are one body - and the only way for us to address the challenges that are before us is as one body. Many of us have a heart to contribute to constructive solutions, wishing we could do something about the many challenges of our world such as poverty, broken relationships, security for field workers and other issues. These big problems are too much for any one of us - but not too big for all of us.

Indigitous #HACK is a unique opportunity to convene people from around the world to collaborate together on missional technology projects that have long-term impact. When we each share our gifts and our perspectives, new solutions become possible that can’t be seen on a smaller scale. #HACK calls anyone who is willing to serve to come create, use and leverage technologies to advance the Gospel, becoming “digital missionaries” from right where they are. What separates Indigitous #HACK from others is that our participants are focused on mobilizing technologists to support God’s work across the nations, offering communities a chance to learn from and with one another as they address interconnected and related challenges. We are focused on inviting people to meet the missional gap, seeing the Great Commission fulfilled through technology and digital strategies.

There are other great Kingdom-focused hackathons; we encourage you to participate in any event God leads you to, or most accessible to you in terms of location or dates. We believe you'll gain a good vision, and find opportunities to apply your skills and talents wherever you go. Collaboration is vital across the global Church and there's a place for all of us.

To get right to the point… yes! #HACK welcomes anyone who wants to collaborate together on missional technology projects that have long-term impact. While our work focuses on all kinds of technology, you don’t have to be a programmer to get involved. We need designers, photographers, writers, project managers, social media gurus - creative thinkers of all types! The most important skillsets are the abilities to work with others and find ways to solve problems. Also, while Indigitous #HACK is explicitly Christian, participants from any (or no) faith background are openly welcomed.

Local hosts are conveners who bring #HACK into their local communities or campuses. Small or large events, simple or fancy, these individuals don't just want to participate, they want to enable other people to get involved too!

Anyone who is well-organized, good at delegating, and able to pull people together can be a local host. Hosts are college students, young professionals, campus staff, or anyone with a heart to see the local community jump in on this vision. They are the main point of contact with the global leadership team, who will guide the hosts through what is needed for the event week by week. The most effective hosts build a small team of volunteers who help coordinate the local event - and those teams tend to have the most fun! Key responsibilities include venue and event coordination, raising funds, outreach to participants and day-of leadership.

Oh, and you don’t have to do it alone! We will equip you with planning guides, checklists and monthly planning calls. We will connect you to others that are planning events in their city and share insights as we plan the hackathon together. Apply here to host an event in your city.

Do you have expertise that you think might benefit others during the #HACK event? If so, let us know! The best mentors are people who ask good questions and help people iterate and improve their work. They serve as a resource person for participants to help with ideation, untangle thorny issues, define team roles and workflow, and prepare for final presentations. Mentors offer technical expertise, project management wisdom, design prompts, spiritual guidance, pastoral care, missions experience, and cultural knowledge. You might have a technology background or specific expertise, which is great - or you might not. The best mentor teams have some technology experts, some marketing/storytelling types, some people types.