Bolt.new Hackathon Q&A

1. What is the Bolt.new Hackathon?
The Bolt.new Hackathon is a global event where anyone—regardless of coding experience—can build and launch AI-powered applications using the Bolt.new platform. It’s designed to be the world’s largest hackathon, with over $1,000,000 in prizes and a focus on accessibility for both developers and non-developers.

2. Who can participate?
Anyone! Whether you’re a developer, entrepreneur, student, creator, or just someone with an idea, you’re welcome to join. No prior coding or technical experience is required—just bring your ideas and ambition.

3. When does the hackathon start?
The main event kicks off on May 30, 2025. Registration is open now, and you’re encouraged to sign up early to receive updates about requirements, rules, and prize details as they’re announced.

4. How does building with Bolt.new work?
Bolt.new is an AI-powered web development platform. You describe what you want to build in plain language, and the AI helps generate, edit, and deploy your application directly in your browser—no local setup or advanced coding skills needed. You can prompt the AI, specify frameworks, and even deploy your finished app from the same interface.

5. Do I have to use Bolt.new?
The hackathon is centered around using the Bolt.new platform. While some flexibility may exist for integrating other tools, the core experience and judging will focus on what you build with Bolt.new. If you want to experiment with other tools, check the official rules when they’re announced.

6. Is coding required?
No coding is required. The event is designed to be accessible to everyone, including those who have never coded before. You’ll use AI prompts to build your application, though experienced developers can still leverage their skills for more advanced projects.

7. What are the judging criteria?
Official judging criteria will be announced before May 30th. Generally, hackathons look for innovation, impact, and technical accomplishment. Both technical and business criteria may be considered, such as originality, feasibility, market potential, and completeness.

8. How do organizers ensure projects are built during the hackathon?
Details on project submission requirements and verification will be released before the event. Typically, hackathons require you to submit your project by a deadline and may ask for supporting materials (like a demo video or code repository) to verify your work was completed during the event window.

9. What can I build?
You can build almost anything—web apps, tools, games, or business ideas—as long as it fits within the theme and requirements announced at the start of the hackathon. The AI platform is flexible and supports various JavaScript frameworks and libraries.

10. Are there local or virtual events?
Yes, you can participate virtually from anywhere in the world. There may also be local meetups or satellite events—check the official registration page for updates.

11. How do I register?
Registration is simple and takes about 30 seconds on the official hackathon page. Sign up early to receive all updates.

12. What if I hit usage limits on Bolt.new?
Bolt.new is free to start, but there are daily AI token limits. If you need more tokens or want private projects, you can upgrade to a paid plan.

13. What are the prizes?
There’s a $1,000,000+ prize pool, with details to be announced before May 30th.

14. Where can I find more information or updates?
The official hackathon page and Devpost listing will have the latest news, requirements, and announcements. Register to receive updates directly.

Quick Tips for Participants

Be specific with your prompts to get the best results from Bolt.new
Scaffold the basics of your app first, then add features.
Batch simple instructions to save time.
Collaborate and look for teammates in the community chat.

Important Links

Hackaton Official Site
Bolt Discord Channel
Bolt Twitter