Spring 2025
Innovation Challenge

Flowing Forward: Sustaining Our Water Use for Tomorrow

More About Our Theme . . .

Flowing Forward: Sustaining Our Water Use for Tomorrow

Water is fundamental to the function of life on Earth, from the largest ecological scales to routine daily habits. From washing dishes to heating and cooling homes, water is an integral part of our lives. The mismanagement of water resources has caused a strain on our water supply, resulting in inequitable access to clean and abundant water. The water-related challenges of the next decade are unprecedented and encompass diverse focus areas. Given the overwhelming significance of water to not only the planet but people as well, the world requires a revolutionized approach to sustainable water consumption. Moreover, the way in which we have interacted with precious aquatic ecosystems has been evidently disruptive, which can cause a slew of cascading harmful impacts. In this challenge, we ask you to grapple with these pressing issues and plot a new way forward for a sustainable future.

Tracks

Choose your track! Participating teams will focus their solution pitch on one of these critical areas:

Learn more about GreenHacks in our FAQ and join us this spring!

Spring 2025 Innovation Challenge Participant Resources

link to: information packet

FAQ

Is attendance required for the entire time?

Participants are generally required to attend the event on Friday from 4:30 to 7:00 PM for the opening ceremonies, keynote speaker presentation, and team finalization. Check-in will begin at 4:00 PM. On Saturday, each team must be present for a designated 10-minute presentation slot between 4:00 and 8:30 PM, with specific times assigned on Friday night. While teams are not required to remain on-site for the entire event, mentors will be available in person at the Pava Center to provide guidance. Additionally, meals and event merchandise will be provided.

How does team formation work and will we be able to modify our teams before the event begins?

Following the keynote speaker, there will be a designated mingling and team finalization period, allowing participants to make any desired adjustments to their teams. Those attending without a pre-formed team are encouraged to use the initial mingling opportunity at the beginning of the event to connect with other participants and form a team.

What is the judging criteria for presentations?

Judging for this event will be broken down into five categories. For each category, a team may receive up to 5 points. The categories will be weighted as indicated below. After all judges evaluate a team, the scores from each judge will be combined to decide a team’s final score.

The weighted categories are:

> Innovation (20%)

> Viability (30%)

> Impact (30%)

> Presentation (15%)

> Questions (5%)