Open AI Hackathons to Learn, Build and Experiment
A curated list of AI hackathons open for registration over the coming months — online and hybrid, for every level. Dates, format and why each one is worth it.
This list was written on July 8, 2026. Hackathons change dates, close registration, or get cancelled fairly often — before signing up, always confirm the details on each one's official site.
Artificial intelligence isn't something you learn just by reading about it. You also learn by building, getting things wrong, trying new tools, and collaborating with people exploring the same territory.
That's why I've put together a list of AI hackathons with open registration or active participation over the coming months. There are online and hybrid options, some more technical and others more accessible for people just starting out. The point isn't that you need to be an expert — it's finding a challenge that pushes you from theory into practice.
Some are focused on AI agents, others on products built with Gemini or Qwen, others on generative AI applied to image, video and audio, and others on infrastructure, cloud or real-impact solutions.
If you want to actually learn AI, taking part in a hackathon can be one of the fastest ways to do it: you get a concrete goal, a deadline, real tools, and a community building alongside you.
The 5 I'd prioritise right now
- Native.builder — Build without limits (Aug 3–10, 2026, online) — the most accessible for every level, built to take you from idea to a deployed AI-native product.
- Build with Gemini XPRIZE (deadline Aug 17, 2026, online) — the biggest in prize money ($2M) and real-world impact, building products on top of Gemini.
- Qwen Cloud — Global AI Hackathon Series (deadline Jul 20, 2026, online) — the most urgent right now, heavily focused on building AI agents.
- Backblaze Generative Media Hackathon (registration through Aug 3, 2026, online) — great for creative profiles: generative AI applied to video, image and audio.
- TechEx Amsterdam — AI & Big Data Expo Europe (Oct 19–20, 2026, hybrid) — a great fit if you're in Europe and want to connect AI with business and data.
More options open over the coming months
| Hackathon | Date / deadline | Format | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global AI Hackathon Series with Qwen Cloud | Deadline Jul 20, 2026 | Online | Intermediate, open to global builders |
| Hack-Nation — Global AI Hackathon | Applications through Jul 10, 2026; event Jul 18–19 | Hybrid: online + hubs | All builder profiles |
| Backblaze Generative Media Hackathon | Through Aug 3, 2026 | Online | Accessible for devs/technical creators |
| Native.builder: Build without limits | Aug 3–10, 2026 | Online | Great for first-time builders |
| Build with DataHub: The Agent Hackathon | Deadline Aug 10, 2026 | Online | Intermediate |
| Arm Create: AI Optimization Challenge | Deadline Aug 14, 2026 | Online | More technical |
| Build with Gemini XPRIZE | Deadline Aug 17, 2026 | Online | Intermediate/advanced |
| VoltHacks 2026 | Deadline Sep 5, 2026 | Online | Beginner-friendly |
| DevNetwork [API + Cloud + AI] Hackathon 2026 | Aug 17–Sep 3, 2026 | Online + Santa Clara | All technical profiles |
| AI Infra Summit Hackathon | Sep 15–17, 2026 | Hybrid: Santa Clara + online | More technical/professional |
| TechEx Amsterdam Hackathon — AI & Big Data Expo Europe | Oct 19–20, 2026 | Hybrid: Amsterdam + online | All levels |
| AI GENESIS 2026 | Online Oct 26–Nov 2; final in Dubai Nov 3 | Global hybrid | Intermediate |
Dates and registration conditions can change — before signing up, confirm the details on each hackathon's official site.