Code Metal Hackathon Forge 2026 sponsored by USSOCOM

Code Metal Forge 2026: Build for the Mission. Compete for $18,000 in Prizes.Calling MIT engineers, coders, and technical builders: take your skills beyond the classroom.Apply for Code Metal Forge 2026, our second annual in-person rapid-prototyping hackathon, November 6–8 at BASE X in downtown Boston. Teams will build software and hardware prototypes for a real-world search-and-rescue challenge: finding people when GPS, connectivity, and critical infrastructure are unavailable.Participation is selective, and spots are limited. There is no cost to apply or participate. We’re looking for exceptional students with technical talent, creative ideas, and the drive to turn tough problems into working solutions.Event details and application: https://www.codemetal.ai/forge-hackathonWHY APPLY?Build something that matters. Tackle a mission-driven challenge involving unreliable communications, limited infrastructure, and real-world engineering constraints. Put your skills to work on technology with a purpose.Compete for $18,000 in prizes. Test your team’s ingenuity and compete for cash prizes and recognition.Earn an internship interview opportunity. University students on the winning team will have the opportunity to interview for an internship with Code Metal, Inc. Show what you can build—not just what’s on your résumé.Create a project worth talking about. Build a prototype that demonstrates problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to turn technical ideas into something tangible. Meet fellow builders who share your ambition.WHO SHOULD APPLY?Students interested in AI and machine learning, computer vision, robotics, autonomous and embedded systems, computer and electrical engineering, RF communications, sensing, and edge computing. Software, hardware, or both—bring your strengths to the mission.Last year’s event featured sponsorship from the City of Boston and U.S. Special Operations Command, with speakers and participants from government and industry.Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and close October 5, 2026. Apply early: participation requires an application and acceptance through the Code Metal event website. ***A Handshake RSVP does not confirm acceptance to the event***Read about the 2025 winning team and projects: HERE