The STEMinate Wildcard Hack is a unique challenge where participants create their own prompts rather than following a single, fixed theme. Teams (or individuals) select 3 to 4 words from a diverse Word Bank spanning categories like Objects, Technology, Nature, Transportation, and Random items. These words combine to form a unique constraint that defines the project's core idea.
The goal is not necessarily to build the most complicated solution, but to demonstrate creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to weave selected words into one cohesive story. The best projects do not merely mention the chosen words; they integrate them naturally as essential pieces of a puzzle within the solution. Participants can choose their own combination or use one of the recommended sets provided.
What to Build Teams can build anything that fits their chosen challenge, including websites, mobile apps, games, desktop applications, CAD designs, hardware prototypes, Arduino projects, IoT devices, data visualization tools, or browser extensions. A perfect finished product is not required; a working prototype that demonstrates the idea is acceptable.
Prizes - 1st Place: CodeCrafters 2-year VIP Membership ($720 value) - 2nd Place: CodeCrafters 1-year VIP Membership ($360 value) - 3rd Place: CodeCrafters 6-month VIP Membership ($240 value)
Judging Criteria Projects are evaluated based on: - Creativity & Innovation (30%): Originality and unique approaches. - Wildcard Integration (30%): How meaningfully the chosen words are incorporated into the project's story and functionality. - Technical Execution (25%): Functionality, design, usability, and implementation quality. - Presentation & Impact (15%): Clarity of communication and demonstration of value.