Introduction

Whether this is your first hackathon or your tenth, we've gathered everything you need to build with confidence. New to AI? Start with the kickoff workshops on August 1: Intro to AI APIs, Designing for Neurodiversity, and From Idea to Prototype in One Week. Need a teammate or a mentor? Our Discord community is here all week.

Want to do more than build? IncludEDU is a global, student-led non-profit, and we're always growing. Join an existing chapter, start a new one in your own school or city, or help run future events. If you want to turn advocacy into action, there's a place for you here — email contact@includedu.org with the subject "I want to get involved," or ask in our Discord.

Tools and Technologies

You're free to use any stack. Some starting points:

  • AI / LLM APIs: Anthropic Claude, OpenAI, Google Gemini, Hugging Face
  • Speech & accessibility: Web Speech API, Azure Cognitive Services, browser text-to-speech and speech-to-text
  • Build fast: React, Next.js, Streamlit, Flask, or no-code/low-code tools
  • Design for neurodiversity: follow inclusive-design principles — clear language, adjustable text and color, reduced sensory load, predictable navigation

If sponsor API credits become available, we'll post them here.

Inspiration

Think about the people behind the problem:

  • An ADHD student frozen at the start of an assignment — what would help them take the first step?
  • A student with dyslexia facing a wall of dense text — what would make it readable on their terms?
  • An autistic teen rehearsing a conversation they're nervous about — what would make practice feel safe?
  • A non-speaking creator with a vivid imagination — what would let them make and share their art?

The strongest projects don't guess at these needs. They ask a real neurodivergent user and build from the answer.

Contact Us & Support Channels

  • Email: contact@includedu.org
  • Discord: [Discord invite link] — channels for each track, mentor requests, and general support
  • Accessibility & accommodations: Need accommodations to participate? Email us — we'll do our best to support you.