Introduction
birmingHack is a 24-hour hackathon organized by the Computer Science Society at the University of Birmingham. The event brings together students from across disciplines—novices and experienced coders alike—to collaborate intensively on tech projects, explore ideas, and push their creativity under time constraints. It’s not just a contest; it’s a community event that encourages learning, innovation, teamwork, and fun. The inaugural birmingHack was scheduled for 22 to 23 March 2025, held in the School of Computer Science at UoB.
Purpose and Vision
The mission of birmingHack is to make hacking accessible and inclusive. It aims to lower barriers to participation by welcoming students from various academic backgrounds, regardless of programming experience. Through workshops, mentorship, and a supportive environment, the event strives to spark curiosity, help participants build real projects in a short time, and foster networks of peer learning. It also helps the host society (Computer Science Society) strengthen ties with technology communities, sponsors, and student developers.
Structure and Schedule
birmingHack follows a typical hackathon format over two days:
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Saturday morning: registration, opening ceremony, team formation
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Afternoon sessions: hacking begins, workshops run in parallel, mini-contests (e.g., Capture the Flag, coding challenges)
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Evening to overnight: continuous hacking, side events (e.g. chess tournaments, fun games)
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Sunday: hacking ends midday, demos/projects submissions, judging, closing ceremony
Throughout the event, there are checkpoints, mentoring, and optional workshops to support participants. The schedule is designed so even those new to hackathons can get guidance and stay on track.
Participation and Awards
Teams of up to four members are typically allowed. Participants can enter into multiple categories or tracks, such as general hack, AI/voice, UI/UX, or themed challenges (e.g. “building foundations”). The winners are judged based on criteria like innovation, technical complexity, polish, relevance to theme, and presentation. Prizes include cash awards, hardware (like Raspberry Pi), sponsor gifts, and recognition in front of peers and industry observers.
Resources, Partnerships, and Support
As a student-led hackathon, birmingHack depends on sponsors, partners, and collaborators. These entities provide financial backing, mentorship, workshop content, tools, and infrastructure. Partners often include tech companies, local startups, academic departments, and campus support units. Resources such as venue space, food, internet, hardware, and software tools are arranged in advance to make the event smooth for participants.
Culture, Inclusivity, and Code of Conduct
A key part of birmingHack is its focus on a respectful and inclusive environment. Organizers publish a Code of Conduct to ensure all attendees—hackers, mentors, judges, and staff—behave fairly, respectfully, and responsibly. Discrimination, harassment, untoward behavior, or disrespect are not tolerated. Participants are encouraged to collaborate, lift others, and maintain a supportive attitude. The event encourages people to help each other, share knowledge, and treat mistakes as learning opportunities.
Impact and Future Directions
Though birmingHack is new, its potential is significant. It offers students a chance to prototype ideas, gain hands-on experience, and build portfolios. It also helps the University of Birmingham strengthen its reputation for innovation and student engagement. Looking forward, future editions may expand to include participants from other universities, hybrid/online formats, broader themes (e.g. sustainability, health tech), stronger industry engagement, and continuous community development among past participants.
Summary
birmingHack is a 24-hour hackathon at the University of Birmingham focused on student innovation, collaboration, and learning. With workshops, mentorship, side events, and competitions, it opens doors for beginners and seasoned coders alike. The event emphasizes inclusivity, supportive culture, and real project building. Over time, it aims to grow its reach, deepen industry links, and become a staple in the UK hackathon scene.
