#HackTN26 Information Session

Join us for the #HackTN 2026 Information Session — your first step into Tennessee’s premier hackathon.

Curious about what a hackathon really involves? Wondering how Hackathons International designs high-impact innovation experiences? This free session will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how #HackTN works, what to expect, and how you can get involved.

In partnership with Oracle VandyHacks, and key local tech communities, we are proud to launch our inaugural Tennessee hackathon focused on activating the local tech ecosystem and accelerating regional economic development. Our mission is to bring together diverse talent to co-create technology solutions across Tennessee.

Please note this event is BOTH online and in-person. We will host it at Vanderbilt and will also broadcast it on Zoom.

During the session, we will:

• Reveal the official challenge statements for #HackTN 2026

• Share details on judging criteria, team formation, and event structure

• Provide guidance on how to prepare and maximize your experience

• Learn about Oracle's Cloud Infrastructure Starter Kit and how to access $500 credit before you begin the hackathon

• Offer time to network with leaders and peers from Tennessee’s tech and entrepreneurial community

• Allow you to meet team members

Official Website: https://www.hackathonsinternational.com/hacktn

#HackTN is more than a competition. It’s an opportunity to:

• Build real-world business and technical skills

• Experience agile, team-based innovation

• Expand your professional network

• Connect directly with Tennessee’s growing tech ecosystem

Whether you’re an experienced builder or simply curious about innovation, this session is your opportunity to get involved.

If you need financial help to participate in the program and/or if you have any questions, please contact angela@hackathonsinternational.com

We want to thank your key sponsor, Oracle and VandyHacks for providing the location, and our community partners for helping us put this event together.

Many thank you to our Community Partners for spreading the word! Please join their communities and events moving forward!!

We look forward to seeing you there!

FAQs

What is a Hackathon?

Hackathons are NOT just for programmers. A Hackathons is a short, pressurized competition where a group come together to design, develop, and demonstrate their ideas on center stage! Usually at the start we give you context about a problem/challenge statement, and then it's up to you to come up with creative ideas! We expect your teams to develop a rough Minimum Viable Product so you can pitch your idea and show the judges what you've come up with on the Sunday afternoon. Read more here. 

Who can participate in a Hackathon?

Anyone with an open mindset can participate. Because this is a Hackathon focused around launching business ideas, helping individuals getting into the tech industry and upskilling software developers, we need a mix of business, design, technical, creative and industry experts to collaborate and work together as teams. 

I am under 18 years. Can I participate?

This event is for individuals who are 18 and over. If you have parent/guardian consent please contact us.

Do I need to form a team before we join the Hackathon?

No, we will be giving you time at the start of the Hackathon to network and meet other people. If you do not have a team by 10;30am on Saturday we will form a team for you via Slack. Teams should be between 3-6 members. We encourage you to bring your friends!

What do I need to bring to the Hackathon?

Bring your laptop and charger, notepads and pens, an open mindset and positive attitude!

​Who owns the Intellectual Property of the solution at the Hackathon?

We don't own anything, you do! We also abide by the Hack Code of Conduct 

For additional information visit: 

https://www.hackathonsinternational.com/hacktn