March 16-19
GTC isn't just a place to watch the future—it’s where you build it. From March 16–19, 2026, we are hosting a series of high-stakes hackathons and a featured live gauntlet in San Jose designed to push the limits of Open Source AI, Generative Media, and Agentic workflows. Whether you’re a hardcore engineer looking to benchmark your agent on a live leaderboard or a business leader ready to try your hand at "vibe coding," there is a challenge waiting for you.
Bring your laptop, your logic, and your best ideas. The stage is set in San Jose, but spots are limited—claim yours today.
Hack for Impact: The Open Source AI Challenge
Build real-world solutions in this 6-hour hackathon on GB10 systems from Dell, HP, and Lenovo. Use open datasets and NVIDIA open-source models to build solutions for Human, Eco, or Culture impact.
Tuesday, March 17. 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Apply here: luma.com/gtc-hack-for-impact
Hack to Create: Building the Toolkit
This session challenges developers to create AI-powered tools that empower digital artists and creators. Powered by the Dell Pro Max with GB10, you will design applications and interfaces that multiply creative workflows, moving beyond single pieces of content to build the engines that make creativity seamless.
Wednesday, March 18 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Apply here: luma.com/gtc-hack-to-create
Live Agent Gauntlet Date: Wednesday, March 18 (Live Stage Event)
Build
and optimize an AI agent ahead of time, then put it to the test in a
live, esports-style benchmarking challenge. Load your agent on stage at
GTC and see how its performance stacks up on a real-time leaderboard.
Note: You must build your application prior to arrival to participate.
Wednesday, March 18 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Apply here: luma.com/gtc-live-agent-gauntlet
Vibe Hack: Rapid Prototyping from Idea to Reality
A fast-paced, 2-hour prototyping sprint open to all skill levels—from students to business leaders. Use "vibe coding" techniques with NVIDIA Nemotron to turn raw ideas into working concepts in real-time.
Thursday, March 19 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Add to Calendar (First Come, First Serve): SE82375
Not Registered yet? You must be a registered GTC attendee to participate in these challenges. Please ensure you have a valid conference ticket for the specific day your hackathon takes place.
When will I be notified?
You will be notified as early as February 26, 2026, with instructions and location for the event.
Do I need a pass to GTC to attend?
Yes, you will need either a full week conference pass or full day pass for the day of the hackathon..
I did not receive the RSVP invite for the event. Can I still go?
Depends on the event, please see details for each event above.
What technologies am I allowed to use?
Anything that helps you code faster.
Will food and drink be available at the event?
Yes.
Can you ship me my prize?
Yes, if the prize is hardware it will be shipped out post-event..
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