SCI Hackathon 2026: Back on the Space Coast

From “what if” to “what’s next” in 48 hours.

Author

Groundswell Startups
March 05, 2026

After the energy, ideas, and unexpected breakthroughs we saw last year, we couldn’t wait to bring the Space Coast Initiative: Hackathon back for another round on April 11 - 12. SCI Hackathon 2026 is where strangers become teammates, and where ideas move fast from what if to what’s next.

A collaborative effort to bridge the gap between academia, industry, and grassroots innovation.

This year, we’re excited to share that SCI Hackathon 2026 is co-powered by Databricks and BoxMica, alongside our longtime ecosystem partners, helping us create an even stronger experience for builders, founders, and technologists.

What to expect

  • Two core tracks: Hardware + Software

  • Applied focus areas including HealthTech, SpaceTech, and DefenceTech

  • Hands-on prototyping using cloud tools and physical lab resources

  • Dedicated mentors, subject matter experts, and industry collaborators

  • Real-world problems, real momentum, and real opportunities beyond the weekend

Themes (Subtracks) for SCI: Hackathon 2026.

No team? No problem.

We’ve got solo founders, technical whizzes, and creatives signing up from across the state, and we’ll help match you based on interests and skill sets. The hackathon is designed to be collaborative, not exclusive.

This Hackathon is for you if…

  • You’re curious about AI, emerging/ assistive tech, or sustainability

  • You want hands-on experience with cloud resources, prototyping tools, and product strategy

  • You’ve got a bold idea and need a team to build it with

  • You’re looking for mentorship, networking, or just a shot at building something amazing in 48 hours

Participant Registration

SCI Hackathon 2026 welcomes both pre-formed teams and individual participants, with team formation support available for those looking to collaborate. Due to limited capacity, early registration is encouraged.

Join the conversation

We’re putting the finishing touches on the dedicated Slack workspace for the SCI Hackathon. Keep an eye on your inbox; we’ll be sending out invites very soon, so you can start connecting with other participants, mentors, and organizers.

A big thank you to our Sponsors

This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors, who are helping power innovation across software and hardware.

Track Sponsors

Program Sponsors

Hospitality Sponsors

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Click here to explore sponsorship opportunities.