JEWEL CITY HACKS 2.0
IT IS TIME TO BUILD!
Did you know that Lyft, Tinder, and GroupMe started as hackathon projects?
…so did features like Meta’s signature Facebook “Like Button” and the “Chat” that became Messenger.
Hackathons are mentor-guided, computer-mediated invention-based learning competitions where founders prototype the technology project that will become the startup company — so get stoked, it’s time to BUILD!
We’re bringing together the brightest inventors and rising entrepreneurs from the City of Glendale and beyond for a high-energy hackathon at Glendale Community College — JEWEL CITY HACKS 2.0.
CHALLENGE
Think Globally, Act Locally 🌍➡️🏙️
At JEWEL CITY HACKS 2.0, we’re challenging you to design technology that empowers your city, neighborhoods, and local business communities. Big ideas can start small—and the next great civic innovation might come from YOU.
Your mission: build tools that solve real municipal challenges.
Would a real-time transit app make getting around your city easier?
Would designing a secure online voting platform for neighborhood council elections strengthen civic participation?
Would streamlining online requests for city services and permits help residents access what they need faster?
Whether it’s through mobile apps, web platforms, or hardware integrations, your solutions should help everyday people or businesses connect with their community and government in meaningful ways.
Remember: The best hacks not only solve problems—they inspire lasting change.
THIS HACKATHON IS OPEN TO STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONALS.
SCHEDULE
September 27, 2025
8:00 AM - Check-in (San Gabriel Building)
8:30 AM - Team Building Breakfast
9:30 AM - Keynote (Math Discovery Center)
10:15 AM - Workshop 1
11:30 AM - Workshop 2
12:30 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - Workshop 3
2:15 PM - Workshop 4
5:15 PM - Dinner
6:15 PM - Project Submissions Due
6:30 PM - Demo Expo
7:30 PM - Closing Ceremony
8:00 PM - Check-out
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. Snacks will be provided throughout the day.
WORKSHOPS
Ideation for Inventors - B2B & B2C
Software Hacking 101
Hardware Hacking 101
Demo Skills for Founders
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Emi Wayner @ Google
Emi Wayner is Head of GTM & Strategic Partnership, Global Program at Google. She is a Growth-focused Product Marketing & Partnerships Executive with 18+ years leading global strategy, GTM execution, and ecosystem development across AI, Cloud, and Media. At Google Cloud, she scaled global customer advocacy programs influencing $8B+ in pipeline and built cross-functional partnerships with startups, telcos, and enterprise leaders.
MENTORSHIP & HARDWARE
Throughout the day, you’ll have access to powerhouse mentors from Hacker Fund—think leaders from Apple, Google, Tesla, SpaceX, and more—ready to share their wisdom and help you level up your ideas.
You will have access to hardware for the hackathon that includes:
VR headsets for demo
Microcontrollers (arduinos) and sensors
Desktop computers (PC)
If you do not have a machine, you will be able to access one in the Math Discovery Center.
You are allowed to bring your own hardware which is limited to VR headsets, microcontrollers, sensors and laptop computers.
For the hackers and mentors who are unable to attend on-site, you will be able to participate in the hackathon through Google Meet and Discord.
JUDGES
Our judges are from the top technology companies in the world. They will be evaluating the project demos based on a set of criteria below:
Technical Execution - 30%
Does the prototype function as intended?Social/Local Impact - 25%
How does this solution benefit the Glendale community?Presentation Skills - 15%
Is there clarity in storytelling and visual design?Creativity & Innovation - 15%
Is the idea original or novel?Feasibility - 15%
Could this idea realistically be implemented?
PRIZES
The full list of prizes will be revealed on Saturday, September 27th, and will include a combination of grant support, professional services, and cutting-edge equipment to help you continue building your projects beyond the hackathon.
All participants will also receive Certificates of Achievement to recognize their creativity, resilience, and completion of the hackathon.
GRAND CHAMPION
Awarded to the team that creates the most impactful and innovative solution addressing local municipal challenges. The Grand Champion embodies the “Think Globally, Act Locally” spirit by building a project that is scalable, functional, and community-driven.BEST HARDWARE HACK
Recognizes the team that integrates hardware tools (e.g., VR headsets, Arduino microcontrollers, sensors) into their project in the most innovative and effective way.BEST SOFTWARE HACK
Awarded to the team that builds the most elegant, user-friendly, and technically robust software solution.TOP 5 HACKATHON HACKERS
Honoring the five standout participants who demonstrated exceptional communication skills, professionalism, and leadership throughout the hackathon. These hackers set the bar for creativity, execution, and effective communication.
FAQ
How many hackers per team?
4
When are submissions due?
6:15pm PT on September 27th, 2025
When can I start hacking?
Now!
Where can I borrow hardware for the hackathon?
Math Discovery Center at Glendale Community College on September 27, 2025
What do I need to complete in order to participate in the hackathon?
You must sign the waiver in order to attend. It will be emailed to you upon registration. If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or legal guardian must sign the form in order for you to participate in the hackathon.
Where do I check-in for the hackathon?
You will check in at the courtyard in front of the San Gabriel Building. Look for the hacker cat! 😺
How do I find the San Gabriel Building or a place to park?
Use this campus map for reference.
This program is being funded by a State Grant awarded through the City of Glendale Economic Development Division.