5 leading platforms to organize and participate in Hackathons
In the fast-paced tech world, hackathons have established themselves as one of the most powerful formats to trigger innovation, attract talent, and solve real challenges. But they are also a privileged gateway for developers, designers, marketers, and professionals looking to stand out, learn, and connect.
In this article, we tell you why you should organize or participate in one, and which platforms connect you with the best opportunities globally.
🔍 What are hackathons?
A hackathon is much more than a coding marathon. It is an intensive innovation laboratory where multidisciplinary teams have between 24 and 72 hours to devise, prototype, and present solutions to challenges posed by companies or communities.
For companies, it is an open innovation tool. For participants, it is a platform for visibility, growth, and networking.
🎯 Benefits for companies and organizers
1. Innovation at startup speed
Hackathons allow for fast and cheap experimentation. Ideas that could take months in traditional environments are validated in days.
2. Employer branding and talent attraction
There is no better way to identify real talent than to see it in action. And if they also have fun in the process, your brand becomes memorable.
3. Cultural boost
It fosters collaboration, creative thinking, and constant learning within your team.
💡 Benefits for participants
1. Practical learning
It’s not theory, it’s hands-on. You work with real technologies, collaborative tools, and under pressure (just like in the real world).
2. Portfolio and visibility
A solid project presented at a hackathon can become your best cover letter for recruiters or investors.
3. High-value networking
You connect with professionals, mentors, and companies with the same interests. Many get jobs or partners thanks to these events.
🌐 Platforms to organize or participate in hackathons
Devpost
One of the favorites of the tech ecosystem. Companies like Google, Microsoft, or Amazon launch challenges here. Perfect for gaining visibility and prizes. 🔗 devpost.com
TAIKAI
A European platform that bets on gamification. It has a Spanish interface and allows companies and participants to connect easily. 🔗 taikai.network
HackerEarth
Focused on technical challenges and hiring developers. Ideal for those looking to improve skills or get a job. 🔗 hackerearth.com/
Agorize
Perfect for corporate challenges and open innovation. It brings together companies and talent to solve real problems. 🔗 agorize.com/es
Unstop
With a focus on university students and young professionals. Ideal for those who are starting out and want to compete. 🔗 unstop.com/
🧭 How to prepare for your first hackathon?
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Read the rules carefully: Understand the challenge, the evaluation criteria, and the rules of the game.
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Form a good team: Diversity is key: mix technical and business skills.
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Prototype fast, iterate better: Don’t look for perfection, look for impact.
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Take care of the pitch: A good demo and storytelling make the difference.
Here you have a complete article of Tips for your first hackathon
📢 Do you want to launch your own hackathons or be part of one?
At My Tech Plan, with more than 6 years of experience in the tech sector and more than 15 hackathons behind us, we help both companies and professionals to get the most out of this format. We design memorable experiences, connect talent, and accelerate innovation. 👉 Discover how we can collaborate with you.