Is there a fee to participate?
Nope! SparkHacks is completely free. We’ll provide meals, swag, and all the resources you need during the event.
Can I participate if I’m new to hackathons?
Absolutely! SparkHacks is beginner-friendly, with workshops, mentors, and resources to help you get started.
Can I participate alone?
Solo participation isn’t allowed—teams must have 4-5 members.
Can my team include members from outside UIC?
No. SparkHacks is exclusively for current UIC students.
Can I change teams during the hackathon?
Teams are finalized once hacking begins, so plan your team in advance.
Do I need coding experience to participate?
Not at all! You can contribute to brainstorming, design, and presentations, and we even have a no-code track for designers.
Can I work on a project I started before the hackathon?
No. All projects must be created during the 24-hour hackathon timeframe.
Do I need to follow the theme of the hackathon for my project?
The event theme sets the vibe, but your project doesn’t need to align with it unless you’re participating in a specific themed challenge or track.
How are projects judged?
Projects are judged on innovation, usability, technical complexity (or design for no-code), and overall impact. Check the Judging Criteria section for more details.
Are there workshops during the hackathon?
Yes! We’ll host pre-hack workshops (Feb 4-6) and technical sessions during the event to help you learn new skills.
How can I connect with mentors?
You can reach mentors through the #mentor-queue channel on Discord or meet them in person at the mentoring areas.
What do I need to bring?
Bring your UIC ID, laptop, chargers, headphones, power bank, and any personal items you’ll need for the 24 hours.
Will food be provided?
Yes! We’ve got you covered with meals and snacks throughout the event.
Is there a place to sleep?
SparkHacks is a 24-hour event, so no sleeping areas are provided. If you need to rest, plan your own accommodations.
What if I have technical issues during the event?
Reach out to the #ask-organizers channel on Discord or find an organizer dressed in [distinguishing feature, e.g., SparkHacks t-shirts or badges] for immediate assistance.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
You can: Ask questions in the #ask-organizers channel on Discord. Email us at sparkhacks@uic.edu. Message us on social media.
