VanHacks hackathon aims to find tech solutions for local charities

VanHacks, Vancouver’s first hackathon to benefit local charities, is set to launch March 4 thanks to locally-based tech companies Hootsuite and Slack.

Over the course of a weekend, teams will gather at Hootsuite headquarters to figure out software and technology solutions that have been plaguing charities such as the Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland, Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, Ending Violence Association of BC, the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, and Knack by Potluck Cafe.

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Competitors are encouraged to keep their submissions open-sourced so they may be used by future companies or contributors.

Sadly, the VanHacks hackathon is already sold out, but event host Chris Hobbs says it will benefit what he calls the pillars of Vancouver.

“Our goal is to help local non-profits that are struggling with tech challenges and work towards a positive solution. By holding this event we hope to foster relationships between tech companies and social organizations that last much longer than just the weekend,” says Hobbs.

“Vancouver is home to world class developers who share a common desire to celebrate and give back to our community.”

Hobbs says beyond working with these charities for the duration of the hackathon, he hopes people will be inspired to donate their tech skills to worthy causes outside of the event.

“If we can solve tech issues in 36 hours, can you imagine what a team of 50 could do over another weekend or a longevity period where we’re really just trying to help the pillars that are helping our society here.”

The event goes until March 6.