2026 Build Challenge: AI for a Better PDX (Portland Startup Week)
AI Portland Build Challenge is a one‑day civic‑focused hackathon where teams build AI-powered projects to make life in Portland better, culminating in a 3 pm showcase in front of our panel of judges.
Whether you're an AI expert, a creative problem-solver, or simply AI-curious—there's a place for you in this challenge. No coding experience required! The most innovative solutions come from diverse perspectives working together.
This is your opportunity to connect with Portland's growing AI community, learn through doing, and transform ideas from zero to one in a supportive, collaborative environment.
How It Works
The day kicks off at 8:00 AM with a team formation session. You'll have the chance to pitch your project idea, hear what others are working on, and find your crew. Whether you come with a fully formed concept or just curiosity, you'll leave with a team.
From there, teams get to work, building, prototyping, and iterating until the 3:00 PM showcase, where you'll present your project to a panel of judges.
What We're Building For
Projects must demonstrate a tangible benefit to the community. We're keeping that intentionally broad - this could mean improving access to services, supporting local businesses, addressing environmental challenges, strengthening neighborhood connections, or anything in between. If it makes Portland better, it counts.
How Projects Are Evaluated
Judges will score projects across five areas:
Use of AI: How effectively does your solution leverage AI?
Viability: Could this actually work in the real world?
Maturity: How far did you take it in a day?
Community Impact: How meaningfully does it benefit the community?
Presentation: How clearly and compellingly did you communicate your idea?
What's Included
Coffee and lunch are on us. Participants will also have access to credits for Lovable and n8n to power their builds.
Agenda
8 am: Event kickoff, team formation. Coffee will be provided!
noon: Lunch will be provided to all participants
3 pm: Presentations begin. Each team will have five minutes to present their projects.
4:30 pm: Winning team announced! Head to the Startup Week Wrap party!