How Smart can you Hack with Spark

Apache Spark has taken the big data community by storm, but what does this mean to you? Come hack with us for a unique opportunity to experiment with capabilities of Spark. This 3-day hackathon will give you the chance to learn, test and extract value using Spark. Our experts will be on hand to offer guidance and tips as you hack your way to the finish. Oh, and did we mention we have $10,000 in cash prizes?!

It is encouraged that all participants take the Spark Fundamentals course (http://bigdatauniversity.com/bdu-wp/bdu-course/spark-fundamentals/) on Big Data University prior to the hackathon. The Docker image used in the course is the same for our hackathon.

Rules and Judging Criteria

For the app to be eligible, hackers must adhere to the following:

· Successfully use spark
· Original idea (not submitted to a previous hackathon)
· Submit a video demo

Apps will be judged based on:

· Innovation: Have you created something completely new/different?
· Creativity: How cool is this app?
· Functionality: How functional was the tech in the demo?

Prizes

1st place - $7,500
2nd place - $2,500

Join us for an intro to our How Smart is your App Hack on May 7th

Bluemix Free Trial
In order to get the most out of this meetup, we strongly encourage you to register for your free 30 day trial of Bluemix if you haven't done so already. Please register for Bluemix here: - https://ibm.biz/Meetup_Spark (https://apps.admin.ibmcloud.com/manage/trial/bluemix.html?cm_mmc=BluemixMarketing--Meetups--04.29.15-_-Spark)

Schedule

Thursday, May 28

4:30 PM - Registration and Networking
5:00 PM - Welcome and Introductions
5:30 PM - Spark Demo and Hackathon Guidelines
6:30 PM - Breakout to begin ideation process

Friday, May 29

9:00 AM - Breakfast and Announcements
9:45 AM - Get hacking!
12:00 PM - Lunch
6:00 PM - Dinner
7:00 PM - Wrap-up for the day

Saturday, May 30

9:00 AM - Breakfast and Announcements
9:45 AM - Hack to the finish line
11:30 PM - Hackathon stops! Break for Lunch
12:30 PM - Presentation Prep
1:00 PM - Judging Expo
· Presentations to a panel of judges
· 3-5 minutes each
3:00 PM - Winners announced!
3:15 PM - Closing remarks
3:30 PM - Doors close

Hope to see you there!!!