StarkHacks - World's Largest Hardware Hackathon
/ April 17-19, 2026
ABOUT THE HACK
Stark Hacks is the world's largest hardware hackathon and the premier Purdue hardware hackathon, a 36-hour engineering marathon where ideas come off the screen and into real circuits. This Indiana hardware hackathon brings together hundreds of students from Purdue University and beyond to build innovative hardware projects.
Organized by the Humanoid Robot Club at Purdue University, hundreds of students prototype, solder, test, and create side by side at this Purdue hackathon. This spring, we're setting an official World Record for World's Largest Hardware Hackathon, making this the most significant hardware hackathon event in Indiana and beyond.
Don't just watch innovation happen. Build it.
STUDENTS OPEN TO ALL
COLLEGE STUDENTS
Tracks
Choose your field. Build your breakthrough.
Space
Exploration
Gaming/
Entertainment
Wearable
Technology
AI & Automation
SPEAKERS
Reach out to sponsorship@starkhacks.com if you're interested in sponsoring.
FAQ
Stark Hacks is the world's largest hardware hackathon and the premier Purdue hardware hackathon. This 36-hour Indiana hardware hackathon at Purdue University brings together hundreds of students to design and build innovative hardware projects, compete for $100,000 in prizes, and help us set a Guinness World Record!
Any university student with a passion for building - all majors and experience levels are welcome. Non-Purdue students must be over the age of 18 on April 17, 2026.
Bring your laptop, student ID (PUID only) /government ID, and any personal tools or hardware you like to use toiletries, sleeping bag etc. We'll handle the rest.
Yes. Basic Components, sensors, and tools will be available in a kit for each team. List will be released close to the hackathon and you can also bring your own equipment.
No, you do not need to be in a team.
You can come with a team of up to four members or find one during the opening mixer.
Submit your application at starkhacks.com/apply. Selected participants will receive confirmation via email.
No. Stark Hacks is completely free for all accepted participants.
No, priority applications don't guarantee admission - but they increase your chances since spots fill up quickly.
All meals during the hackathon along with plenty of snacks, energy drinks and tons of snacks are covered.
Yes! You can register solo and form a team during the event if you'd like.
Priority Deadline: 16 January 2026 Regular Deadline: 30 January 2026
This Purdue hardware hackathon takes place at the Purdue Armory, right on campus in West Lafayette, Indiana. Address: 812 3rd Street, West Lafayette, IN - 47907. Other details will be released closer to the hackathon
The event is only offered in-person!
No, you cannot start on your project before the hackathon. All aspects of the project must be done during the 36 hours of the hackathon.
That's absolutely fine! Most participants come up with their ideas during the hackathon through brainstorming sessions, team discussions, and sponsor challenges.
Travel Reimbursements would be available for certain participants. Please indicate so in the application. More details will be released closer to the hackathon.