NextStep Hacks 2026

Overview

NextStep Hacks 2026, presented by HackAlphaX, is an online hackathon inviting participants to address environmental challenges under the theme 'Earth Forward'. The event encourages the development of technological solutions for issues such as climate resilience, renewable energy, conservation, sustainable agriculture, and waste reduction, aiming to protect the planet and foster a sustainable future. The hackathon provides an opportunity for individuals to apply their creativity and technical skills to real-world environmental problems. HackAlphaX, founded by students, aims to advance STEM education and make technology broadly accessible. Over its six-year history, the organization has engaged over 3,000 students through its events, building a community focused on innovation and positive change. NextStep Hacks 2026 continues this tradition by offering a platform for learning, collaboration, and project development. Throughout the hackathon, participants will have access to a variety of resources designed to enhance their experience and support their projects. These include engaging workshops to develop new skills, mentor sessions to provide guidance, and opportunities for networking and collaboration with peers. Additionally, the event features raffles and giveaways, culminating in a celebration of innovation. Projects are encouraged to identify a pressing environmental problem, either local or global, and propose a creative technological solution. Collaboration with local organizations, environmental groups, researchers, or community members is suggested to ensure solutions address actual needs. The hackathon aims not only to strengthen participants' technical and problem-solving skills but also to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

What to build

Projects should identify a pressing environmental problem (e.g., climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, resource depletion) and develop a creative technological solution. This includes areas such as reducing waste, improving renewable energy, conserving water, protecting wildlife, monitoring ecosystems, advancing sustainable agriculture, or helping communities adapt to climate change. Participants are encouraged to collaborate with local organizations or community members to address real-world needs.

Prizes

Key dates

• Hackathon Start2026-08-21
• Deadline for Submissions2026-09-13

Eligibility

Ages 13+ only. Students only. Companies/professional organizations are excluded from participation. Open to all countries/territories, excluding standard exceptions.

How to enter

1. Join the hackathon on Devpost.
2. Join the Discord server for information, announcements, and help.
3. Submit a project that adheres to the 'Earth Forward' theme.

Submission requirements

• All submissions are required to have a video demonstration/pitch no longer than 5 minutes.
• A link to the repository or code for viewing.
• A link (if applicable) to the live website or application.
• If submitting to other hackathons (this month only), it must be allowed by the other hackathon.
• If continuing work on an old project, specify in your Devpost what was worked on before and during the hackathon.

Judging criteria

• Originality: Has this project been done before at hackathons? How creative is the solution?
• Adherence to Track: Does the hack fully adhere to the 'Earth Forward' theme?
• Completion: Does the hack work? Did the team achieve their goals?
• Learning: Did the team stretch themselves and learn something new?
• Design: Was thought put into the user experience? How well designed is the interface?
• Technology: How technically impressive was the hack? Was the technical problem difficult? Did it use clever techniques or many components? Did it elicit a 'wow' reaction?

Resources

• Volunteer/Judging Form
• Discord Invite Link
• HackAlphaX YouTube Channel