Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gloo AI Hackathon?
The Gloo AI Hackathon, formerly known as the AI & the Church Hackathon, is an annual event that unites developers, ministry leaders, publishers, investors and innovators to create AI-powered solutions aimed at advancing the mission of the global Church. Hosted by Gloo, the technology platform connecting the faith ecosystem, the Gloo AI Hackathon serves as a catalyst for developing tools that promote human flourishing and organizational thriving within Christian communities.
When is the hackathon?
The 30-day hacking window will start on September 8, 2026 (from wherever you are) and will culminate with the in-person event on October 6-8, 2026.
Where is the hackathon?
The first part of the Gloo AI Hackathon is a “30-day hacking window” that takes place locally or virtually, and culminates in an in-person event in Boulder, Colorado, at the Limelight Conference Center. Teams will collaborate throughout the hacking window and three-day event using tools such as Zoom, Google Drive and/or Slack.
Why do we have a hackathon?
At its core, the Gloo AI Hackathon is driven by the belief that:
The Hackathon is a platform where innovative, AI-driven ideas can be refined, accelerated and funded to serve the Church effectively.
Hackers are servant leaders whose contributions should be celebrated.
AI presents a transformative opportunity to shape the future positively.
Collaborative networks amplify impact across the faith ecosystem.
It’s incredibly generative when we spend focused time together.
Our hope is that together we will spark innovation, challenge boundaries and engage in thoughtful discussions that matter.
How much time do I have to commit?
The hackathon is a 48-hour sprint beginning on Tuesday afternoon and ending on Thursday afternoon. Since the goal is to rapidly bring meaningful solutions to life, participants should expect to commit Tuesday evening, most of Wednesday and Thursday morning/early afternoon to the hackathon. Participants do not need to be available 24/7 for the duration of the event, but should communicate their availability to team members. Participants are welcome to work 24/7 if they prefer.
Can we work around the clock?
Absolutely!
Where can we work from?
There will be multiple (awesome) spaces at Limelight, but you can also work from anywhere around Boulder if you prefer, just stay connected virtually for food, announcements and other event updates.
What do winning teams receive?
We expect to give away more than $200,000 in cash! Winning teams may receive monetary prizes, computing resources, go-to-market resources, organizational support and direct access to key partners to further develop, validate and implement solutions developed.
Who owns the IP developed at the Hackathon?
The creators of each entry will retain ownership of their entries. No IP is claimed or taken by hackathon participation.
How will entries be judged?
Given the amount of teams this year, judging will be done in two rounds. The first round will be 9-11pm on October 7th to select the finalists. The finalists will present on Thursday, October 8th during the closing session. Judging will be done by a panel of at least three judges who will be announced before the event. There will also be an independent code verification team that checks any related code of submissions.
Entries will be judged on the following criteria:
20% Concept/Product
Does the product address the challenge?
How user-friendly is the approach?
How much progress did they make during the event?
20% Innovation
Does the project portray a creative approach to the issue?
Does the project address an actual need?
Did they start from scratch or build on existing technology?
20% Impact and Execution
How much impact (quality and quantity) could the solution have?
Could it produce a big change or a little change to the problem it addresses?
Is this solution implementable?
How hard would it be to scale?
20% Use of AI
How did the project use AI?
20% Teamwork / Presentation
Who is eligible to participate?
We are seeking a diverse group of participants. Participants ages 18+ of all experience levels, professional and academic backgrounds and skill sets are welcome; what matters most is your commitment to making an impact and your willingness to collaborate.
Do I have to have a technical background to participate?
No! Participants of all professional, academic and ministry backgrounds are welcome! Technical or design experience is always helpful, but it is not required. All participants should have an interest in faith-based use of AI.
What kind of role can I play if I am not a developer?
Our goal is to build solutions that matter. Non-technical participants can contribute to that goal in many ways: frame approaches, write content, manage the project, design sites, deliver the pitch and more.
What can I work on at the event?
Projects at the event must use AI tools to drive human flourishing. Beyond that, recommended focus areas will be provided, but if participants have a different idea or focus they can definitely pursue it.
What if I have a project that already exists?
Building on previously-started work is fine, just have a clear line that denotes where you started in the hacking window. We ask participants to only bring work started in the pre-event time (30 days before the hackathon). We desire to keep an even playing field and expect that many participants will only be able to work during the 48 hours. All judging and awards will be based on code written and progress made during the official hacking window and event.
How do I register?
Please complete the registration form found here by September 8, 2026. If you are applying with a team, all team members are required to register.
What if I don't have a team?
We’ll help you find one! There is a value on teamwork and collaborative development, and participants will be encouraged to join teams at the event and work together. Individual participants will be given an opportunity to join teams (or form them together). The Discord is great for this.
How many teams will participate?
We are anticipating around 80-90 teams that have, on average, 5 participants each.
Is there an age limit?
All participants must be 18 or over.
Can citizens of any nation apply?
Of course!
How can my organization become a partner for this event?
Thank you for your interest! Please email hackathon@gloo.us. A member of the organizing team will contact you to determine how your organization’s expertise, resources and reach can be most effectively utilized as part of this effort.
What should I bring?
Laptop, chargers, government ID, and any personal items you need for a 48 hour stay. We provide food, drinks, and basic supplies.
Can I work on existing projects?
New code must be written during the hacking window and event, but you can use existing libraries, frameworks, and APIs. Pre-planning and ideation are encouraged.
I'm a solo team and do not have anyone supporting our team in Boulder. Am I eligible for judging?
No. All teams must have at least one representative onsite in Boulder to qualify for judging. We appreciate that you are participating, but for your submission to be considered, you will need to identify someone to be onsite at the event.
How can virtual participants join in and be part of the hackathon experience?
Virtual participants will receive a Zoom link (sent by email) to join the opening (Day 1) and closing sessions (Day 3), as well as the Builders Bash Keynote (Day 2) To take part, they must be registered for the event. Participation goes beyond simply viewing these sessions, virtual team members are encouraged to join a team and actively collaborate with their teammates throughout the hackathon.
Is there a dress code?
Casual and comfortable clothing is recommended. The venue can get chilly, so bring layers. No formal attire required.
Where can I sleep?
It’s recommended to find lodging so you can sleep and take a shower! The ballroom will be open around the clock, and many participants will stay awake or take naps at their workstations.
Accommodations
We do have a small room block at the Limelight hotel with a deeply discounted rate for those looking to book a room.
What if I have more questions?
If you have additional questions or press inquiries, please email hackathon@gloo.us.