Drones, Cat Tidbit Feeders, HyperWatch, GoKart Tank… the Hackaday Prize

“Build Something That Matters,” says the 2017 Hackaday Competition Summary.  And while the prize may go to something really changing the world, entries so far vary widely between the useful and the – sort of, in a weird way (yes, we’re talking about you, “Buttwand“) – entertaining.

Hackaday.io is the organization hosting the contest, which offers over $250k in total prizes.  Described as “the world’s largest collaborative hardware development community,” Hackaday provides a forum for hackers everywhere to explore their new ideas – and potentially work with – other readers.  Launched in 2014, the Hackaday Prize is a celebration of the value that Hackers can bring to real world problems.

“It’s 2017. Our planet is facing climate change, overpopulation, food shortage, technology security issues, aging populations, among others,” reads the contest brief. “We challenge you to come up with solutions to address current issues and create a better life for all of us.”

The contest is comprised of 5 different 5-week challenges, which run in conjunction with the “Best Product” round.  20 Projects will be chosen from each of the 6 rounds, and each project will win $1,000.  The Grand Prize is $50k, Best Product $30k, 2nd-5th Place: $20k, $15k, $10k, $5k respectively.  In addition, Hackaday provides $1 for every like on a project up to $4,000 as seed funding for the project.

The 5 challenge rounds include:

• Design Your Concept (show planning for an awesome build
• Internet of *Useful* Things (IuT ! IoT)
• Wheels, Wings, and Walkers (build something that moves)
• Assistive Technology (helps the sick, elderly, physically or mentally challenged)
• Anything Goes (free for all, as long as it does social good)
• Best Product Round

Drone manufacturer Chris Anderson of 3DR will serve as one of the judges for the Wheels, Wings and Walkers round.  With a couple of drones already in the mix – competing against a GoKart Tank! – droners should put forth their ideas.  You can enter the contest here until November 11.