Hack for Impact: The Open Source AI Challenge
⚠️ You must hold a valid GTC 2026 pass and attend on-site to participate.
Overview
Build real solutions using open-source AI in a hands-on, 6-hour hackathon. Developers will work on GB10 systems from Dell, HP, and Lenovo, based on NVIDIA DGX Spark and running open models like Nemotron and Cosmos.
These GB10 systems are designed for practical AI development, fast iteration, predictable performance, and the ability to run realistic workloads without fighting the environment. You’ll have direct access to enterprise-class hardware that supports containerized workflows, common AI frameworks, and production-like configurations, so you can focus on building instead of setup and troubleshooting.
Utilizing provided open datasets, you will develop applications addressing one of three challenge categories: Human Impact, Environmental Impact, or Culture Impact.
All entries are eligible to be featured in a Developer Showcase.
Prizes
We're excited to announce the prizes for this hack: we're giving away THREE GB10 systems, one per track, sponsored by Dell Technologies, HP, and Lenovo.
That's not all though 👀 There will be a prize for the Best Use of OpenClaw 🦞 More details to be shared at the beginning of the event!
Participation Requirements
Please read carefully before applying:
GTC Registration Required: This is an in-person event. You must have a valid GTC 2026 conference pass to participate.
Pre-Registration Step: Applying here is the first step. Once your application is reviewed and approved, we will provide you with a private link to the GTC Session Catalog to officially add the hackathon to your schedule.
On-Site Only: Participation is limited to attendees physically present at GTC.