PROJECT PYGMALION
Project Pygmalion is a 24-hour hackathon in the heart of Chicago where you can build something truly incredible.
We're gathering the brightest builders in the Chicago area to design and develop interactive AI avatars, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. With a $10,000 prize pool and a panel of judges including YC founders and top VCs, this is your chance to ship a cool project, network, and maybe even win big.
Let's build the future, together.
For info and announcements --> Join Discord Server
Key Details:
🗓️ When: Saturday, September 27th, 4:30 PM – Sunday, September 28th, 6:30 PM CDT
📍 Where: Drive Capital HQ, 215 N Peoria St, Chicago, IL 60607
🏆 Prize Pool: $10,000 across four awesome tracks.
🍕 Food & Drinks: All meals, snacks, and caffeine are on us. You focus on building!
Who's This For?
This hackathon is for students who are ready to build. If you're passionate about creating, shipping, and pushing the limits of AI, this is your playground. Whether you're a technical or not, this is for you.
Tracks & Prizes 🏆
The Realistic Avatar ($3,000 prize pool): Create the most photorealistic and lifelike AI avatar with natural expressions and movements.
The Best Memory ($3,000 prize pool): Build an avatar with sophisticated memory and contextual awareness that learns from conversations.
The Non-Technical Track ($2,000 prize pool): For the best overall concept, UX design, character backstory, and pitch. No coding required!
The Mystery Track ($2,000 prize pool): A secret challenge revealed at the opening ceremony. Expect a fun twist!
What We Provide 🛠️
To help you build without limits, all teams will get:
Mentors.
Infinite API Credits for top-tier LLMs, Text-to-Speech (TTS), Speech-to-Text (STT), and Vision models.
Monitors for every team, speedy Wi-Fi, and a comfortable place to hack.
Non-stop food, drinks, and inspiration!
What to Bring 🎒
Just bring your essentials:
Your laptop and charger.
Any other personal hardware you love to use.
Teams & Teaming Up 🤝
Got a crew? Awesome! Come with your pre-formed team of 2-4. Flying solo? No sweat! We'll have a fun team formation session after the opening ceremony to help you find your perfect match.
Schedule
Saturday, September 27th
4:00 PM: Doors Open & Check-in
5:00 PM: Dinner & Networking
6:00 PM: Opening Ceremony & Rules
6:30 PM: Hacking Begins!
Sunday, September 28th
8:00 AM: Breakfast & Coffee
3:00 PM: Submission Deadline
3:30 PM: Project Demos & Judging
6:00 PM: Awards Ceremony & Closing Remarks
6:30 PM: Event Ends
Our Code of Conduct
Our top priority is to create a safe, welcoming, and fun environment for everyone. All participants, sponsors, and judges are required to agree to and abide by our Code of Conduct. Let's make this a positive experience for all!
Ready to Build?
Spots are limited. Apply now to secure your place!
Contact Us
Questions? Shoot us an email at tiko@simcare.ai