DevNetwork [API + Cloud + AI] Hackathon 2026

Overview

The DevNetwork [API + Cloud + AI] Hackathon 2026 is the nation's largest challenge-driven hackathon, co-located with API World 2026. This event invites the international developer community to participate both in-person at the Santa Clara Convention Center and online. Historically attracting over 300 participants, the hackathon aims to foster innovation in the realms of API, Cloud, and Artificial Intelligence. The hackathon provides a platform for developers to create solutions leveraging cutting-edge technologies. Participants will engage with various challenges posed by sponsoring companies, applying their skills in areas such as IoT, Low/No Code, and Machine Learning/AI. The event emphasizes practical application and problem-solving, with a focus on building functional projects that address real-world needs. Key aspects of the hackathon include collaborative development, access to sponsor APIs and resources, and opportunities for networking with industry professionals. The hybrid format allows for flexibility, enabling global participation while also offering an in-person experience for those who can attend. The event culminates in an awards ceremony at the Santa Clara Convention Center.

What to build

Participants are tasked with building projects that utilize API, Cloud, and AI technologies, specifically addressing challenges set by various sponsors. For instance, the Nutrient DWS Challenge requires projects to use Nutrient DWS (API, SDK, or Viewer) for at least one core document operation, with a focus on deterministic, auditable output, potentially involving human-in-the-loop processes for regulated document work. Example ideas include customer onboarding with ID and supporting document parsing, converting PDF invoices to compliant e-invoices, identifying discrepancies in trade documents, managing mortgage appraisal format changes, and redacting personal information with audit trails.

Prizes

Key dates

• Hackathon Kickoff (Online)August 17, 2026
• Hackathon Online PeriodAugust 17 - September 3, 2026
• In-person Event & AwardsSeptember 2-3, 2026

Eligibility

Participants must be above the legal age of majority in their country of residence, which is specified as 18 years and older. Individuals from all countries and territories are allowed to participate, with standard exceptions applying.

How to enter

1. Create a DevPost account.
2. Click 'Register' on the DevPost DevNetwork [API + Cloud + AI] Hackathon 2026 page.
3. Review the full Hackathon Instructions.
4. Develop and submit your project within the hackathon period.

Submission requirements

• Project name + one-line pitch
• Public repository (or shared link) with setup instructions
• 2–4 minute demo video showing the project working end-to-end
• One line on where a specific sponsor technology (e.g., Nutrient DWS) does the heavy lifting and why

Sponsors & partners

Resources

• Full Hackathon Instructions
• Full Rules
• Code of Conduct
• DevNetwork DevPost Profile
• Nutrient DWS Account Creation