2026 Build Challenge: AI for a Better PDX (Portland Startup Week)

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AI Portland is excited to participate again in this year’s Portland Startup Week.

AI Portland Build Challenge is a one‑day civic‑focused hackathon where teams build AI-powered projects to make life in Portland better, culminating in a 3 pm showcase in front of our panel of judges.

Whether you're an AI expert, a creative problem-solver, or simply AI-curious—there's a place for you in this challenge. No coding experience required! The most innovative solutions come from diverse perspectives working together.

​This is your opportunity to connect with Portland's growing AI community, learn through doing, and transform ideas from zero to one in a supportive, collaborative environment.

## ​How It Works

​The day kicks off at 8:00 AM with a team formation session. You'll have the chance to pitch your project idea, hear what others are working on, and find your crew. Whether you come with a fully formed concept or just curiosity, you'll leave with a team.
​From there, teams get to work, building, prototyping, and iterating until the 3:00 PM showcase, where you'll present your project to a panel of judges.

## ​What We're Building For

​Projects must demonstrate a tangible benefit to the community. We're keeping that intentionally broad - this could mean improving access to services, supporting local businesses, addressing environmental challenges, strengthening neighborhood connections, or anything in between. If it makes Portland better, it counts.

## ​How Projects Are Evaluated

​Judges will score projects across five areas:
​Use of AI: How effectively does your solution leverage AI?
Viability: Could this actually work in the real world?
Maturity: How far did you take it in a day?
Community Impact: How meaningfully does it benefit the community?
Presentation: How clearly and compellingly did you communicate your idea?

## ​What's Included

​Coffee and lunch are on us. Participants will also have access to credits for Lovable and n8n to power their builds.

## ​Agenda

​8 am: Event kickoff, team formation. Coffee will be provided!
noon: Lunch will be provided to all participants
3 pm: Presentations begin. Each team will have five minutes to present their projects.
4:30 pm: Winning team announced! Head to the Startup Week Wrap party!

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