Introduction

You’re free to use any tools at your disposal! A hackathon is about creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. Don’t worry about having everything figured out at the start — the goal is to explore, learn, and build together.

Tools & Technology

Here are some free tools and platforms you can use for your project:

• Replit – browser-based coding environment.

• GitHub – version control, collaboration, and project hosting.

• Glitch – fast prototyping for web apps.

• Kaggle – datasets and Jupyter notebooks for analysis.

• Google Colab – cloud notebooks with free GPU access.

• Figma – collaborative design and prototyping.

• Canva – quick graphic design and pitch deck creation.

• Slack or Discord – team communication.

• Trello – task management and project organization.

• Notion – documentation and collaboration.

Industry Inspiration

Big companies have tackled environmental and social issues with innovative solutions. Here are 10 examples to spark ideas for your own projects:

1. Google – AI Flood Forecasting: Using machine learning to predict and warn communities about flooding.

2. Microsoft – AI for Accessibility: Tools that help people with disabilities access education and jobs.

3. Patagonia – Supply Chain Transparency: Fighting for fair labor practices and sustainability in apparel.

4. Unilever – Sustainable Packaging: Reducing plastic waste through biodegradable materials.

5. Tesla – Electric Vehicles & Energy Storage: Reducing emissions with clean transportation and energy.

6. Salesforce – Equality Initiatives: Driving workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion.

7. IBM – SkillsBuild: Free tech training programs to close the education and workforce gap.

8. Ben & Jerry’s – Social Justice Advocacy: Using branding to highlight racial and climate justice campaigns.

9. Nike – Community Investment: Programs supporting youth education and sports access in underserved areas.

10. Intel – Water Stewardship: Recycling water in manufacturing to reduce strain on local supplies.

Think about how approaches like these can inspire local Hampton Roads solutions.

Contact Us

Have questions or want to connect further?

📧 Contact Erin Moore, Vice President of Urban League Young Professionals of Hampton Roads, at vicepresident@yp.ulhr.org

Additional Resources

• What is a Hackathon? (MLH Guide)

• Hampton Roads nonprofits working on local issues:

  • Chesapeake Bay Foundation – water quality, bay restoration.

  • Elizabeth River Project – river cleanup and community health.

  • ForKids – ending child and family homelessness in Hampton Roads.

  • Hampton Roads Workforce Council – workforce development and training.

  • Urban League of Hampton Roads – education, jobs, housing, and health equity.

  • YMCA of South Hampton Roads – youth development and community health.

✨ The goal: combine creativity, technology, and community needs to make Hampton Roads stronger, healthier, and more connected.