Hack the Gap

Our Hackathon 2025 recap is live! From standout projects to unforgettable moments (and yes, plenty of snacks), relive the weekend with us. Check it out on our latest LinkedIn newsletter, and don’t forget to subscribe to stay in the loop on upcoming programs, events, and tech opportunities at Hack the Gap!

Our Data Analytics Cohort ‘25 just wrapped up their Capstone Presentations, showcasing the incredible insights and skills they’ve built over the program! From data storytelling to real-world problem-solving, these projects prove the power of data-driven decision-making. A huge thank you to the data professionals who took the time to provide valuable feedback and guidance to our participants—your insights make all the difference! ???? Here’s to the next wave of data analysts making an impact! #HackTheGap #DataAnalytics #CapstonePresentation

Wow! Imagine building functional features for an app in just one weekend—well, our hackathon participants did just that! Last weekend they brought their creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for tech to tackle real-world challenges. It was a tight competition, but here are the teams that took home the top prizes! ?? ?? ?????? ??????????: ?????????????? – A culturally aware translation app designed to bridge complex language barriers in critical conversations. Whether you’re helping a loved one understand a medical diagnosis or navigating tricky legal and technical terms, Mediate goes beyond basic translation by considering cultural context, regional accents, and language nuances—making communication more accurate and meaningful for immigrant families and professionals alike. ?? ?????? ??????????: ?????????????? ?????????????????? – A gamified learning tool that lets users upload YouTube playlists, organize content, and schedule learning sessions seamlessly on a calendar. Making it easier to actually watch what you’ve saved instead of letting it pile up. Perfect for self-learners and content enthusiasts looking to stay on track! ???????????????????? ??????????: ???????????????? ?????????? – A discreet, life-saving resource hub disguised as a virtual shopping app. Designed for individuals in unsafe domestic situations, this app provides access to essential support services while appearing as a regular shopping platform. By keeping critical resources hidden in plain sight, Discrete Folks helps users seek help safely and privately. ?? ?????????????? ??????????: ?????????????????? – An AI powered ASL learning platform with dynamically curated learning material for any topic you are interested in learning how to sign. It also includes a real time feedback feature which uses hand pose estimation models to help you practice the signs more effectively. A huge thank you to all the teams, mentors, and volunteers who made this weekend unforgettable! Your innovation and dedication inspire us all. ?? #HackTheGap #Hackathon2025 #InnovationForGood #TechForChange

What an exciting Hackathon weekend! A huge shoutout to all the participants—you brought the ????????????, ????????????????????, and ?????????????????????????? to make this event unforgettable. We hope you had an amazing experience, learned something new, and made great connections along the way. Stay tuned—full recap coming this week!???? #HackTheGap #Hackathon2025

????'???? ?????????????? ?????? ?????????????????? ???????????????????? & ??????????????! ???? Hackathon 2025 is almost here, and we need volunteers and mentors to help make it an unforgettable experience! ?? As a volunteer, you’ll support participants, coordinate activities, and keep the energy high. As a mentor, you’ll guide teams, offer insights, and help shape innovative projects. No matter your role, you’ll be part of an inspiring tech community that’s all about collaboration and growth. 2-hour minimum commitment—every bit of support makes a difference! Ready to make an impact? Sign up now and join the fun! → https://lnkd.in/g3_ymxTY #HackTheGap #Hackathon2025

?????????? ?????????? ????????????????????????: ??????! ???? That’s right—the Hackathon community is our last judge! Here’s the best part: YOU get to vote for the third-place winner! ?? Come watch the demos, cheer on the teams, and help decide which project takes home the community prize. It’s going to be an exciting afternoon full of innovation, creativity, and surprises. Be part of the action—grab your Demo Day tickets now! ???https://bit.ly/htgdemoday #HackTheGap #Hackathon2025 #DemoDay #YouBeTheJudge

Meet another #HackTheGap judge: Meg Steuer, Executive Director at Minnestar.?? Meg Steuer is the Executive Director of Minnestar, a nonprofit built to support, grow and connect Minnesota’s tech community. With nearly a decade of experience in the local startup ecosystem, she has held roles at organizations like BETA, Twin Cities Startup Week (TCSW) and Forge North. Passionate about community, collaboration, and innovation, Meg is excited to see what teams will build during this Hackathon weekend! Stay tuned for more judges announcement! ?? Join Meg at Demo Day to help pick the top 3 teams for the weekend!: https://bit.ly/htgdemoday

Meet the next #HackTheGap judge: Asnat G. ?? Asnat holds an M.S. in Applied Urban Science and Informatics from New York University and is passionate about the intersections of spatial geography and social justice. She is a community-conscious and data-forward Realtor helping Minnesota home buyers, sellers, and investors of all budgets sell and find the perfect property. Join us for the fun and watch your favorite teams on Demo Day! Grab your tickets now: https://bit.ly/htgdemoday

The hackathon is less than 2 weeks away, and we can’t wait to see you all there! We’ve ordered the stickers, we’re picking the snacks, planning surprises, and making sure everything is set for a weekend full of building, collaboration, and innovation! Huge Thanks to our Bridge Builder Sponsors! ?? ? Creed Interactive ? Super Go Faster ? Bread and Butter Ventures ? In Tandem Thanks to our sponsors! All of this is possible because of their support, thank you! #HackTheGap #Hackathon2025 #BridgeBuilders

?????????????????? ???????? ?????????????????????? ?? With significant snowfall expected on Feb 8, we’re moving the Hackathon to ?????? ????-???? to keep everyone safe! ?? Same awesome event, just a new date—so mark your calendars and get ready to build, vibe, and connect! Already registered? Your ticket is still good! Can’t make it? Feel free to release your ticket on Eventbrite so someone else can take your spot and join the fun! We can’t wait to see you there! Stay tuned for more updates. ?? Hackathon tickets: https://lnkd.in/gmvaskXg Demo Day tickets: https://bit.ly/htgdemoday #HackTheGap #Hackathon2025