Q: What is the goal of the 2017 Humanitarian Hackathon?
A: During the Humanitarian Hackathon, the teams transform humanitarian ideas into innovative prototypes so that the best ideas survive and can be driven forward after the event.

Q: I like the idea! But...what's a hackathon?
A: Originally composed of  the words ‘hack’ and ‘marathon’ this problem-solving workshop started to facilitate intensive collaboration between software developers. As in our case, it is often seen as a collaborative effort  focused on innovation and occurring within a limited amount of time (e.g. 60 hours).

Q: Do I need to be a hardcore computer specialist?
A: No, THE Port hackathons are not purely software related projects and could be varied in nature. Thus, we create multidisciplinary teams to add as much variety in skills and backgrounds to the teams as possible.​

Q: I already participated in THE Port Hackathon 2016, can I apply to the 2017 edition, too?
A: All applications are open without restrictions, so please do send your application! But, keep in mind, we aim to assemble balanced teams for each edition. In other words: you might have been the perfect fit for the last edition and topic, but if the selection team doesn't see you fitting this time, please don't feel disappointed.

Q: I'm a current THE Port Ambassador, can I also participate in the next hackathon? 
A: Absolutely. Make sure you send us your complete application.

Q: What is the selection process like?
A: The call for participants is open until 04 June, 2017. Send us your complete application by the deadline. THE Port will review all applications submitted. If you are selected for the next round, you will have a video interview with a member of our team. If you are selected after the second round, THE Port will send you a notification with the team and topic that you will be assigned to. 

Q: That was too long - short version, please?
A: Applications accepted until 04 June, 2017
Video interviews between June-July 2017
Notification of team membership and topic in mid-August 2017.

Q: Can I bring my own topic?
A: You can suggest a topic if you have a special interest in solving a problem or a need in the humanitarian field through technology. 'Endless imagination' is THE Port Hackathon's motto, and we welcome your ideas! Please submit them to idea@theport.ch, but note that challenge selection for this year is well under way, so it is likely that we will consider your idea for future events. 

Q: Can I apply with my own team?
A: Applications are individual. Teams are composed in order to guarantee a healthy mix of people coming from different backgrounds but you should definitely encourage your team members to apply, too.

Q: Do I need to pay to attend?
A: Participation is free of charge. However, you will likely need to pay for your travel and your accommodation since we are able to offer free accommodation only to a limited number of participants. 

Q: Can I help you in any other way?
A: Yes, of course! We are always trying to reach out a diversified audience for every edition of the hackathon, so please help us advertise the 2017 event. You can do it by sharing the event on Facebook, Twitter or your favourite social media; announcing it to maker spaces, fab labs, hackathon communities, universities and research facilities in your country. Tell your friends and help us promote diversity!