Tools & Workshops
Everything you need to go from idea to working prototype. No experience required.
Suggested Tools
Tools and platforms to help you build your project
Visual Builder
No coding? No problem. These platforms let you build functional apps and sites visually.
Web App Starter
Use React + Next.js with Vercel's free templates, and Supabase for a free database and auth.
Python/API Kit
Build backends and APIs with Python. FastAPI has great docs for beginners, and Replit lets you code in the browser.
Design Templates
Figma templates, icon libraries, and color palettes to speed up your design.
AI Integration
Add AI to your project using free APIs. Google AI Studio and OpenRouter give you free access to powerful models.
Free Tools & Credits
Student-exclusive freebies and generous free tiers to power your hackathon project without spending a dime
GitHub Student Developer Pack
FREE Copilot, domains, cloud credits, and 100+ tools for students
Replit
FREE browser-based IDE - code, run, and share projects with zero setup
Workshop Videos
Watch anytime — the 'Before the Event' videos are a great starting point for your next hackathon.
How to Get Project Ideas
Y Combinator
Brainstorming techniques for finding problems to solve
Watch on YouTubeGit & GitHub for Beginners
Fireship
Learn how to use GitHub to share and collaborate on your hackathon project
Watch on YouTubeOn The Day
Everything you need to know for hackathon day
What to Bring
- Laptop with charger (required)
- Student ID or photo ID
- Notebook and pen for brainstorming
- Headphones for focused work
- Reusable water bottle
How to Submit Your Project
- Submit on Devpost (southwestmn-hacks.devpost.com) by 5:00 PM
- Include: project name, challenge, team members
- Link to your GitHub repo or live demo
- Short video demo (optional, not required)
- Brief description of what you built
Demo Presentation Tips
- Demos are 3 minutes + 2 min Q&A
- Start with the problem you're solving
- Show the working prototype (even if rough!)
- Share what you learned and next steps
- Judges value creativity and effort over polish