Sea x OpenAI Regional Codex Hackathon - Singapore
OpenAI and Sea are both building at the frontier of AI - OpenAI through the models and tools that define what's possible, Sea through the products and systems serving hundreds of millions of people across Southeast Asia and beyond. Together, we're investing in Southeast Asia's AI ecosystem - giving the region's best builders a space to push limits and forge what comes next. The regional Sea x OpenAI Codex Hackathon is where it starts. Singapore is the first stop.
One day. Build something real.
This event is for builders who are already comfortable using AI coding tools and shipping production-grade code - not an introductory workshop for those just getting started with AI.
We're bringing together serious builders - engineers and founders who are already building with AI and want to push further. Expect to move fast, make sharp decisions, and come with a problem worth solving.
Only 40 team slots available, with each team consisting of 3-4 members. Applications close by 28 May 2026 (Thursday). If there are more applications received than team slots, teams will be shortlisted based on the quality of their application. Successful applicants will be notified by 1 June 2026 (Monday).
Guests of Honour
David Chen - Chief Product Officer, Shopee
Oliver Jay - Managing Director, International, OpenAI
Thibault Sottiaux - Vice President, Head of Codex, OpenAI
Build Directions
We're focusing on three directions for this hackathon. Your project can tackle one or span across several - the problem is yours to define.
(1) Autonomous & Adaptive AI
Build agents that can be trusted to operate without constant human oversight - handling the unexpected and staying reliable when real-world conditions change.
(2) AI-Native Products & Operations
Many products today use AI as an add-on. This direction is about what products and operations look like when AI shapes them more fundamentally.
(3) Deep Domain AI
Build AI that goes deep in a specific field - reflecting how work is actually done, not a simplified version of it. The value comes from genuine domain understanding, not general capability.
Prizes
🥇 1st Place: $30,000 USD in OpenAI API credits
🥈 2nd Place: $15,000 USD in OpenAI API credits
🥉 3rd Place: $5,000 USD in OpenAI API credits
All members of the top 5 teams will receive one year of ChatGPT Pro.
Teams & Registration
Attendance is capped at up to 40 teams.
This hackathon is team-based. Each member must apply individually and indicate their team name in their application. Teams must have 3-4 members.
Applications close by 28 May 2026 (Thursday). If there are more applications received than team slots, teams will be shortlisted based on the quality of their application. Successful applicants will be notified by 1 June 2026 (Monday).
Agenda
08:30 AM: Doors Open & Registration (all participants expected by 09:00 AM)
9:00 AM: Breakfast and Pre-Event Setup
9:30 AM: Welcome & Opening
10:00 AM: Hacking Begins
12:30 PM: Lunch (working lunch to maximise hacking time)
5:00 PM: Code Freeze & Submissions
5:15 PM: Dinner & Round One Judging (teams will present to judges in rotation)
7:30 PM: Finalist Presentations
8:30 PM: Awards & Closing
9:00 PM: Event Ends
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is this event open to everyone?
Anyone can sign up for the event, however it is recommended for builders who are already comfortable using AI coding tools and shipping production-grade code. Applications that do not meet this bar will not be shortlisted.
2) Can I join as an individual?
No. All applications must be submitted as a pre-formed team of 3-4 members. Each member must apply individually and indicate the same team name in their application.
3) Can I join virtually?
No. This is a fully in-person event in Singapore. All team members must be present throughout the entire day or risk being disqualified.
4) What are the key dates?
Applications open: 11 May 2026 (Monday)
Applications close: 28 May 2026 (Thursday)
Notification of successful applicants: 1 June 2026 (Monday)
Hackathon: 6 June 2026 (Saturday), 08:30 AM - 9:00 PM
5) How will teams be selected?
Applications are reviewed and shortlisted based on the team's technical background, what they intend to build, and alignment with the hackathon's build directions. Space is limited to 40 teams.
6) Can we prepare or start building before the event?
You're welcome to arrive with ideas in mind - but all building must take place on the day. Pre-built code or existing projects shall not be submitted.
The build directions shared here are intentionally broad. More context will be provided on the day - come with an open mind and be ready to build from scratch.
7) What tools and resources will be provided?
Each participant will receive access to Codex during the event. Details on tooling setup will be shared with successful applicants during the event day.
8) What do I need to bring?
Bring your own device and charger. Come with ideas you are excited to explore and the energy to build from the moment hacking starts.
9) What will be provided on the day?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided. Basic setup including tables, chairs, and power sockets will be available throughout the venue.
10) How does judging work?
All teams will present to judges in rotation during Round One. Shortlisted finalists will then present on stage. Teams will be evaluated on problem framing, quality of build, depth of thinking, and how effectively Codex was leveraged in the build process.