Register here: https://www.joinluma.org/event-register and join our discord!

About the Challenge

Prompt:

This isn’t about following instructions. This is about thinking like real entrepreneurs. We want you to step into the role of problem-solvers, innovators, and builders. The challenge is simple but demanding: identify a real problem, then create a solution bold enough to make an impact. Don’t wait for us to hand you the idea — you’re the ones who define the problem and prove you can solve it. Choose one of these sectors: Aerospace – space travel, drones, satellites, next-gen flight Tourism – travel experiences, cultural exchange, how people explore Security – data protection, personal safety, community security Your task is clear. Spot the problem. Build the solution.

The LUMA Startathon is a fully virtual startup pitch + hackathon designed to inspire and empower students to think like entrepreneurs and devolopers. This is your opportunity to turn bold ideas into real-world impact and compete for a $1,000 cash prize.

To participate, you must register at joinluma.org and join our official Discord server, where all announcements, mentorship, and event logistics will take place.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Participants will be challenged to create innovative solutions based on a surprise theme revealed at the start of the competition. You and your team will have a few days to:

Build a prototype or product
Craft a compelling pitch
Submit your materials for judging

Submission guidelines will be in the discord

Then, a panel of experienced judges will review all submissions. The top 5 finalist teams will advance to the live pitch round, where they will present to a panel of real entrepreneurs and innovators.

The most outstanding team will win the 🏆 $1,000 grand prize, along with access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and more.

To be eligible, don’t forget to register at joinluma.org and join our Discord. Submission on Devpost alone is not enough.

At LUMA, our mission is to create 100% free, high-quality learning experiences for the next generation of creators, coders, and entrepreneurs. The Startathon isn’t just a competition—it’s a launchpad for student innovation, real-world skill-building, and entrepreneurial growth.

Requirements

To be eligible for judging, each team must submit the following by the deadline:

✅ 1. GitHub Repository

A public GitHub repo containing:

Your codebase or mockups (if applicable)
Any design assets, slide decks, or relevant materials
A clear README that explains your idea, how it works, and how to run or view the project (if technical)

✅ 2. 60-Second Demo Video

A short video that visually demonstrates your product or prototype.
This can be a screen recording, animation, or voiceover walkthrough—whatever best showcases your idea in action.

✅ 3. 5-Minute Pitch Presentation (Pre-recorded)

A compelling, well-structured presentation that explains:

Your team’s idea
The problem you’re solving
Your solution and how it works
Who it helps and why it matters
How it could grow or be implemented
Slides are required. You may include multiple speakers or have one representative present.