Hackathon Checklist

Run hackathons that spark innovation — and deliver measurable results.

The proven 3-phase framework Fortune 500s use to run corporate hackathons that generate real business outcomes, drive employee engagement, unlock AI-powered ideas, and build a pipeline for innovation.

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Why this matters

When running a hackathon, it helps to have a proven framework for unlocking employee creativity, surfacing bold ideas, and fast-tracking innovation.

  • 🎯 Define problem statements that matter.

  • 🤖 Train staff on AI-powered innovation tools

  • 🚀 Accelerate winning projects post-hack.

This checklist shows you:

  • How to set clear objectives and ROI metrics

  • Where most hackathons fail (and how to avoid it)

  • How to integrate AI tools for smarter ideation and prototyping

  • The steps to turn ideas into an acceleration pipeline

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Used by Fortune 500s to run AI-powered innovation sprints that unlock ROI in weeks.

What you’ll learn

  • MAP

    Set the foundation : challenges, sponsors, ROI, IP, design, comms

  • HACK

    Ignite creativity with sprint-style problem framing, collaborative ideation, AI-enhanced prototyping, killer pitches and transparent judging

  • DEPLOY

    Turn ideas into impact - measurable ROI, follow-up, acceleration

Meet Maria

Hackathon Strategist & Design Sprint Expert

I’m Maria Halse Duloquin, hackathon strategist and design sprint expert.

I’ve run innovation events for global brands across finance, FMCG, publishing, luxury and automobile sectors.

My focus: designing hackathons that go beyond the hype to deliver lasting results.

Testimonials

  • “Maria helped us run our first inclusive hackathon. The structure, energy, and outcomes were beyond expectations — ideas are now being accelerated across the business.”

    Aviva Hackathon

  • “We saved a lot of time and energy thanks to this hackathon by working directly with our clients, and it helped strengthen our relationship. I really appreciated being able to work on topics outside of the usual buyer/seller roles. Worth 100 meetings!”

    Belpreneur Hackathon

  • “This hackathon demonstrated the terrific value of a diverse team coming together for a short time frame and being laser focused on solving a problem. The results will help to shape our digital expertise around sustainability.”

    Chief Commercial Officer, Compass Group Global Hackathon

  • "Thank you so much as always for your kind support, guidance and positivity. We all have taken away so much."

    Department of Health, Abu Dhabi

Level Up

This is the high-level roadmap. Want the full step-by-step checklist with 50+ tasks, AI tools, templates, and pro tips?

Want a tailored timeline? Book a free call.

Ready to run a hackathon

that actually moves the needle?

Let’s talk!