[REDACTED] HACKATHON FAQ

Q: What are the hackathon tracks?

A: For this hackathon edition, we have two tracks:

1. Native Track – New and substantially modified existing projects built using NEAR and/or NEAR-adjacent technology.

2. Chain Agnostic Track – New and substantially modified existing projects built using blockchain and/or AI technology.

   Chain Agnostic submissions may qualify for Main Track prizes if they include NEAR integration. Choose the Chain Agnostic track for all sponsored bounty submissions to help judges find them easily.

Q: Do you have specific bounties?

A: We encourage freedom of ideas and creativity, so we’re not offering specific bounties for the Native track. Instead, we’re offering nominations like Best of AI, Best of Chain Abstraction, etc. (see full list here).

For the Chain Agnostic track, specific bounties are provided by hackathon sponsors. These bounties are designed to support the development of beneficial products for our community.

Q: What does a winning project look like?

A: We’re looking for great ideas, impressive tech solutions, and solid teams. Here’s our judging criteria for winning projects:

1. Technological Implementation
   • Does the interaction with NEAR demonstrate quality software development?
2. Design
   • Is the user experience and design of the project well thought out?
3. Potential Impact
   • Is the project open-source, and how significant could its impact be on the NEAR ecosystem?
4. Quality of the Idea
   • How creative and unique is the project?
5. Project Sustainability
   • Is the project plan thought out and realistic?

Q: Do I need a team to hack? How can I find one?