Space Business Plan Hackaton

Unlock Your Potential and dive into the creation of cutting-edge aerospace business plans that align with Puerto Rico’s dynamic economy. Compete for a chance to directly enter "Beyond Earth Business Challenge" and win a grand prize of $250,000 in cash. Join by yourself or form a team of up to 10 people and get ready for over 30 hours of non-stop space entrepreneurial challenge!

Hackathon Timeline:

• Registration Deadline: Monday, July 15, 3 PM
• Hackathon Kickoff: Tuesday, July 16, 11 AM*
• Submission Deadline: Wednesday, July 17, 9 PM
• Presentations: Business Pitch and Q&A: Thursday, July 18, 9 AM to 11 AM
• Winners Announced: Thursday, July 18, 11AM - 12 PM

*Agenda for Tuesday, July 16:

• 11AM - 11:30AM: Welcome, Problem Statements & Mentors by Jose Molina, CEO at PRSF & Rex Deming CEO at Tu Carrera Primero
• 11:30AM - 12PM: ACT 60 by Invest PR
• 12PM - 2PM: Lunch Break
• 2PM - 2:30PM: SBIR & STTR opportunities by Colmena 66
• 2:30PM - 3PM: ITAR by USAF & Space Force
• 3PM - 3:30PM: Resources & Official Kickoff by Jose Molina, CEO at PRSF

Who Should Participate

We’re seeking passionate innovators eager to push the boundaries of human space presence and use Puerto Rico as a launchpad for aerospace breakthroughs. Join us if you're an entrepreneur, student, or professional in aerospace, sustainability, engineering, or business. 

Participation Categories:

• Early Stage - Concept
• Mid Stage - Series A Financing
• Advanced Stage - Market-Ready or Revenue-Generating

Business Innovation Verticals:

You and your team will develop a business plan that integrates the space industry with Puerto Rico's economic incentives under Act 60. The focus areas listed below are examples to inspire your project, but you are welcome to propose your own innovative ideas.  Your proposals will be evaluated by top-tier experts in finance, Act 60 regulations, aerospace, human spaceflight, and business innovation.

Explore a diverse array of innovative topics including Advanced Life Support Systems, Pharmaceuticals in Microgravity, Renewable Energy for Space Habitats, Waste-to-Resource Conversion, Space Agriculture and Food Production, Telemedicine and Remote Health Monitoring, Bio-Regenerative Life Support Systems, Mental Health and Well-Being in Isolation, Advanced Materials for Space Habitats, Enhanced Wearables for Space Missions, Autonomous Systems and Machine Learning, Interactive Interfaces for Astronaut-Robot Teams, Next-Gen Deep Space Communication Networks, Innovative Space Tourism and Education, Efficient Thermal Management in Spacecraft, Advanced Biosensors for Health Monitoring, Architectural Innovations in Space Habitats, and Eco-Friendly Space Propulsion.

Space Buisness Plan Hackathon Guidelines and information

Example of Problem Statements that you can use or propose your own

Evaluation Framework:

• Innovation: Originality and impact potential on the space industry.
• Strategic Use of Act 60: Effective integration of Puerto Rico’s tax incentives.
• Scalability and Viability: Growth potential and practical implementation.
• Presentation: Clarity, persuasiveness, and completeness.

Prizes:

• First Place: Direct entry to "Beyond Earth Business Challenge" for a chance to win a $250,000 cash prize, and a presentation slot at the prestigious Washington DC Symposium.
• Second and Third Place: Invitations to present at the Washington DC Symposium, earning significant exposure in the aerospace industry.

Eligibility:

Participants from Puerto Rico intending to join the Space Hackathon 2024 should meet certain criteria: residency in Puerto Rico, being at least 18 years old and proficiency in both Spanish and English. Additionally, they should demonstrate relevant skills in technology, engineering, business, or related fields, a strong dedication to innovation, and an active involvement in all scheduled activities. Upholding high ethical and professional standards throughout the hackathon, adhering to established regulations, and engaging respectfully with fellow team members and organizers to craft inventive and feasible solutions for advancing space exploration are expected. Participants are also responsible for bringing their personal laptops, tablets, or other necessary equipment for developing the business plan, as well as electric cord extensions and multiplugs. Any supplementary tools and equipment for the hackathon should also be provided by the participants.

Don’t Miss This Opportunity!