Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and daily life, and with that power comes the responsibility to harness it for social good. That’s the guiding principle behind NumHack 2024, an upcoming hackathon organized by the 2023 cohort of Impact Scholars, with support from NumFOCUS. This three-day event, from Nov. 22–24, 2024, offers a unique opportunity for participants to explore how AI can be applied to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Whether you’re an AI expert, a data science enthusiast, or someone passionate about creating a better world through technology, NumHack provides a collaborative platform to learn, innovate, and drive impact.
What is NumHack?
NumHack 2024 is a better-than-average hackathon. It’s designed to bring together a wide range of participants — from students and professionals to domain experts and AI practitioners — in one place, all focused on creating solutions with real-world impact. This hybrid event, welcoming participants both in person and online from around the world, challenges teams to work over three days on AI-driven projects aligned with the event’s core themes. Participants can choose from various technical outcomes: building AI applications using existing models, training or fine-tuning models, or performing advanced data analysis. This focus ensures that the event caters to both technical and non-technical audiences, providing meaningful opportunities to innovate within their areas of expertise.
Themes and Categories
NumHack 2024 will focus on different key areas where AI can make an impact. Some of the core themes include:
- Financial inclusion: How can AI innovate solutions to expand access to financial services for underserved populations?
- Agriculture: How can AI optimize agricultural practices, increase food production, address climate change, or impact food security?
- Education: What role can AI play in making education more accessible, personalized, and effective for learners of all ages?
- Healthcare: In what ways can AI improve patient care, streamline medical processes, or assist in the development of new treatments?
- Accessibility: How can AI empower people with disabilities by providing assistive devices, communication tools, and inclusive environments?
- Environment: How can AI contribute to combating climate change, conserving biodiversity, or promoting sustainable practices?
- Social Justice: Can AI be leveraged to address systemic inequalities, promote fairness, or protect human rights?
These themes highlight the event’s focus on social impact, encouraging participants to consider how their work can be a force for good in our world.
Who Should Participate?
NumHack 2024 is open to anyone interested in AI with a desire to make a difference, including:
- Data Scientists and AI Researchers: Showcase your skills and explore new applications for your expertise.
- Developers and Engineers: Build innovative solutions using the latest tools and technologies.
- Domain Experts: Provide insights into the specific challenges faced in various fields, such as healthcare, education, or environmental science.
- Students: Gain hands-on experience and network with professionals in the industry.
- Social Impact Enthusiasts: Collaborate with tech experts to turn your ideas into actionable solutions.
- AI Enthusiasts: Get more experience and gain knowledge about the growing field of AI and its applications.
No matter your background, NumHack is designed to be an inclusive and collaborative environment where everyone’s contributions are valued.
Why Participate?
There are several reasons to join NumHack 2024:
- Make an Impact: Work on projects that have the potential to solve real-world problems and contribute to positive social change.
- Learn and Grow: Gain new skills, explore cutting-edge technologies, and receive mentorship from experts in the field.
- Network: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry professionals, and potential collaborators.
- Showcase Your Work: Present your projects to a panel of judges and a broader audience, gaining recognition for your efforts.
- Prizes and Recognition: Compete for awards and prizes, and gain visibility for your innovative ideas.
Event Structure and Timeline
NumHack 2024 is built to maximize creativity, collaboration, and productivity. Here’s how things will run:
- Build a Team (November 4–17, 2024): Participants will have a two-week window to register and form teams. Whether you come with a team or are looking to join one, this phase will ensure that everyone is set up for success. (Pre-registration is now open, so secure your spot on the NumHack website)
- Hackathon (November 22–24, 2024): The event kickoff is Nov. 22 with an opening ceremony that will include keynote speeches, introductions to the event’s themes, and guidelines for participation. Over the next three days, teams will work around the clock to develop their projects, with access to mentors, workshops, and resources to help them along the way.
- Judging (November 25–29, 2024): After the hackathon concludes, teams will submit their projects for evaluation. A panel of judges, comprising experts from various fields, will review the submissions based on criteria such as innovation, impact, feasibility, and technical execution.
- Announcing Winners (December 3, 2024): The event will conclude with the announcement of the winners, who will be recognized for their outstanding contributions.
How to Get Involved
Getting involved with NumHack 2024 is simple:
- Pre-Register: Pre-register to make sure you receive updates and important information as the event approaches.
- Form or Join a Team: Start thinking about who you’d like to collaborate with. Whether you’re putting together a team of friends or colleagues or looking to join an existing team, there’s a place for everyone.
- Prepare: Start brainstorming. Use the resources provided by NumHack, such as workshops and mentorship sessions, to refine your skills and concepts.
- Participate: On Nov. 22, dive into the hackathon and give it your all. This is your chance to make a difference, learn new things, and have fun along the way.
Conclusion
NumHack 2024 is more than just a hackathon — it’s a movement towards using AI for social good. It’s an opportunity to come together with others who share your passion for technology and make a tangible impact on the world. Whether you’re looking to build your skills, connect with others, or contribute to meaningful solutions, NumHack is the place to be.
Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of something bigger. Mark your calendars, gather your team, and get ready to hack for a better world. Pre-register today and start your journey towards innovation and impact.
Join the Movement — Be part of NumHack 2024 and help shape the future of AI for social good. Learn more and register online at pydata.org/numhack/.
