About the Challenge

This is about thinking like real entrepreneurs. We want you to step into the role of problem solvers, innovators, and builders. The challenge is simple but hard to execute: identify a real problem, then create a solution bold enough to make an impact. Don’t wait for us to hand you the idea. You’re the ones who define the problem and prove you can solve it. Choose one of these sectors:

  • Transportation
  • Infrastructure
  • Education

Your task is clear. Spot the problem. Build the solution.

Join Discord

The LUMA Pitch Competition 2025 is a fully virtual Pitch Competition designed to inspire and empower students to think like builders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. This is your opportunity to turn bold ideas into real-world impact and compete for $12,000 worth of prizes

To participate, you must register at joinluma.org and join our official Discord, where all announcements, mentorship, and event logistics will take place.

What You’ll Be Doing

Participants will be challenged to create innovative solutions based on a surprise theme revealed at the start of the competition. You and your team will have a few days to:

  • Build a prototype or product

  • Craft a compelling pitch

  • Submit your materials for judging

Submission guidelines will be shared in Discord.

After the submission deadline, a panel of experienced judges will review all entries. The top 5 finalist teams will advance to the live pitch round, where they’ll present to real entrepreneurs, engineers, and innovators.

At LUMA, our mission is to create 100% free, high-quality learning experiences for the next generation of  entrepreneurs.

Requirements

To be eligible for judging, each team must submit the following by the deadline:

✅ 1. GitHub Repository

A public GitHub repo containing:

  • Your codebase or mockups (if applicable)

  • Any design assets, slide decks, or relevant materials

  • A clear README that explains your idea, how it works, and how to run or view the project (if technical)

✅ 2. 60-Second Demo Video

A short video that visually demonstrates your product or prototype.
This can be a screen recording, animation, or voiceover walkthrough—whatever best showcases your idea in action.

✅ 3. 5-Minute Pitch Presentation (Pre-recorded)

A compelling, well-structured presentation that explains:

  • Your team’s idea

  • The problem you’re solving

  • Your solution and how it works

  • Who it helps and why it matters

  • How it could grow or be implemented
    Slides are required. You may include multiple speakers or have one representative present.

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$12,000 in prizes
Grand Winner
$5,000 in cash
1 winner

+ subscriptions

Second Place
$3,000 in cash
1 winner

+ subscriptions

Third Place
$2,000 in cash
1 winner

+ subscriptions

Fourth place
$1,200 in cash
1 winner

+ subscriptions

Fifth Place
$800 in cash
1 winner

+ subscriptions

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

TBD

Judging Criteria

  • In Discord
    Check Discord

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

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