About DS+X

DS+X stands for Data Science + X.

The idea is simple: start with something you care about and explore what becomes possible when you combine it with data. Your “X” might be a field of study, a community, an industry, a creative practice, or a problem you want to solve.

Data Science + Health.

Data Science + Art.

Data Science + College Life.

Or something entirely different. DS+X brings students with different backgrounds and skill sets together to explore questions, work with data, build prototypes, and learn from one another. You do not need to arrive as an expert data scientist. Bring curiosity, a willingness to build, and something you want to explore.

DS+X and Hackachusettes

DS+X 2026 is an official Hackachusetts site, connecting the Boston University hackathon with a broader statewide celebration of building, experimentation, AI, and innovation.

Students participating at the BU DS+X site will build and submit their projects through DS+X while also becoming part of the larger Hackachusetts community. DS+X keeps its own identity and focus: At DS+X, data science is the common language. Your X determines where you take it.

Projects may also be eligible for Hackachusetts recognition, challenges, prizes, or opportunities where applicable. 

Learn more here: https://massaicoalition.com/hackachusetts/ 

Requirements

CollegeHack

Explore how AI and data science can uncover insights that will improve college life and the student experience. Participants will build their own solutions and respond to challenges provided by BU's IS&T department.

Health+BioTech Hack

Explore how data science and AI can address challenges across health and medicine. Participants analyze health data and develop innovative, data-driven solutions to real-world problems.

ArtHack

Blend creativity and technology to transform ideas into interactive experiences. Participants experiment with generative art, creative AI, and physical computing to build engaging projects.

OpenHack

Explore other disiplines in conjuction with data science.

What to Submit

  1. A link to your project’s GitHub repository, which should include a README file that explains your project in detail.
  2. If applicable, a link to any website or web application you managed to create for your project.
  3. A link to your slidedeck that effectively explain your project, its features, and its impact.
  4. A video that demonstrates how to set up and use your solution.

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$5,000+ in prizes
+ other prizes
Best Overall
$1,200 in cash
1 winner

Best HealthHack
$900 in cash
1 winner

Best ArtHack
$900 in cash
1 winner

Best CollegeHack
$900 in cash
1 winner

Best First Time Hacker
$300 in cash
2 winners

Best Use of Lovable
1 winner

Free Lovable Subscription for a year.

Best Use of BU Libraries Resources
$500 in cash
1 winner

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

Ziba Cranmer

Ziba Cranmer
Spark! Director

Judging Criteria

  • Problem (20%)
    Project clearly addresses problem definition and aligns with user needs.
  • Idea & Relevance (25%)
    Project's solution is creative and has great potential impact.
  • Technical Execution (25%)
    Functionality, stability, usability, and innovative use of tools. Emphasis on accessibility and working demos, not unrealistic deployment.
  • Design (15%)
    UX clarity, navigation, visual consistency, accessibility, and thoughtful details that enhance usability.
  • Responsibility & Ethics (10%)
    Reflection on ethical and responsible use of data/AI. Considerations of bias, fairness, accessibility, transparency.
  • Presentation (5%)
    Clarity, engagement, and ability to communicate the project’s purpose and impact.

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

Invite others to compete

Hackathon sponsors

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