Do you have an idea for a smart-phone app that would improve the city?

Metro Government, in partnership with Code for America, is offering $10,000 in cash prizes for apps or computer coding ideas during an upcoming hackathon.

“The task is to design or prototype an app that helps improve the quality of life in our city,” Mayor Greg Fischer said. “No idea is too strange or too bold. We want to see interesting ideas and innovation at work.”

Hackers need only to bring their laptop or other computer device that can be connected to a projector so people may view the final product.

Beth Niblock, the city’s Chief Information Officer, said people can be inspired by examining all the data that’s currently available in raw form at portal.louisvilleky.gov/service/data. “We’ve got crime data, vacant property data, restaurant ratings, 311 data, air quality data, lost pet data and more.”

A panel of volunteer judges will determine first, second and third place winners.

The hackathon is first-come, first-served, so individuals or teams wanting to participate should arrive early. When all seats and space are gone, registration closes. We will provide light refreshment and lunch.

The event is part of the broader Code Across America: A Weekend of Civic Innovation. Want to know more? View Terms & Conditions or contact ted.smith@louisvilleky.gov. 

Schedule of Events

Photos from previous Code for America hackathons: 

Why you should come to a Code for America hackathon whether you’re a hacker or not:

Why playing with open data is awesome: 

   You’re awesome for reading right through the end. Hope to see you there!