Why Hack Away Hunger? Food insecurity is about more than empty shelves.
Transportation barriers, housing instability, underemployment, rising food costs, access to services, and countless other challenges can prevent someone from accessing basic needs. There is no single cause, and no single solution.
Real progress will require our entire community (nonprofits, businesses, technologists, volunteers, and neighbors) working together to make meaningful strides towards a hunger-free Iowa.
That's why we're bringing together the people who understand these challenges alongside the people who build technology. Together, we can create practical solutions that make a lasting impact.
How It Works Hack Away Hunger is a 30-day innovation challenge designed to give teams time to build sustainable solutions—not just a weekend prototype.
The experience includes:
- [Sept 10th] Kickoff Event: Meet community leaders, hear firsthand stories about food insecurity, and explore the problem space. Register at join.hackawayhunger.org!
- Two Weeks of Ideation: Form teams, research challenges, and begin designing your solution. (Project proposals are due Sept 17th at midnight.)
- [Sept 24th–26th] 48-Hour Accelerator Hackathon: Bring your ideas to life during the in-person charity hackathon. Snacks, meals, and beverages will be provided.
- Final Two Weeks: Polish your project, complete stretch goals, and prepare your presentation.
- [Oct 10th] Final Showcase: Present your solution to a panel of judges, compete for cash prizes, and celebrate the innovation, collaboration, and impact created by the Hack Away Hunger community.
- Post Hack Support: If you’d like to keep working with the nonprofits you meet at our hack hunger event let them know you’d like to volunteer.