RIMPA Global Hackathon Challenge
Innovating the Future of Information Management
Since its launch in 2024, the RIMPA Global Hackathon has become a flagship event for forward-thinking professionals, students, and innovators across the information management community. Designed to challenge conventional thinking and inspire breakthrough solutions, the hackathon brings together diverse minds to tackle real-world problems shaping the future of our industry.
At the heart of the event is opportunity, not just to collaborate and innovate, but to compete for a $10,000 prize, recognising the most impactful and creative solution.
Each year, participants work intensively to develop ideas that address pressing challenges in areas such as data governance, compliance, digital transformation, and emerging technologies like AI. Supported by expert mentors and industry leaders, teams gain invaluable experience, exposure, and connections.
Curious about what it takes to win? Hear directly from our inaugural champions of 2025 as they share their journey, insights, and advice for future participants:
What is a Hackathon
A hackathon is an exciting and collaborative event where people from diverse backgrounds come together to solve problems or create innovative solutions within a limited timeframe. Participants form teams to tackle specific challenges, pooling their skills and resources to rapidly prototype and develop practical outcomes.
Over 24 hours, teams brainstorm, design, and build applications or concepts, refining their ideas through quick and iterative problem-solving. At the end, solutions are presented to a panel of judges, with prizes awarded for creativity, functionality, practicality and innovation.
Beyond competition, hackathons foster collaboration, learning, and networking, offering a dynamic environment for creativity and real-world problem-solving.
When is the Hackthon 2026?
Want to win $10,000 AUD? Here’s your chance! Gather your team and get ready to compete in RIMPA Global’s exciting annual Hackathon, judged by an independent panel of industry experts.
The 2026 Hackathon Challenge Questions will be released on 1 July 2026, giving you time to prepare before the main event. The Hackathon kicks off on Monday, 19 October at Royal Randwick in Sydney, with 24 hours of intensive hacking. Finalist presentations will take place on Tuesday, 20 October, with the top three teams pitching to judges that afternoon.
The journey culminates in a truly unforgettable moment on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, where the winners will be announced at the RIMPA Live Convention’s exclusive Diamond Ball, in front of an audience of over 500 industry professionals, celebrating excellence, creativity, and the future of information management.
Can you hack it? This is your chance to collaborate, innovate, and help shape the future of information management.
Hear More from Other Winners
Be inspired by those who’ve been there and done it. Our past winners share their experiences, insights, and what it really takes to stand out in the RIMPA Global Hackathon. From late-night breakthroughs to final pitch moments, these stories highlight the creativity, collaboration, and determination behind every winning idea.
Hackathon Prizes
Here’s what awaits you in this unparalleled event:
1) First Place: $10,000 AUD
But that's not all! The winning team will be showered with additional benefits, including:
- Recognition in our email newsletter and social platforms, reaching out to over 3000+ subscribers: Your team and project will be featured in a special announcement, giving you valuable exposure.
- Exclusive Mentorship & Networking: Winners gain one-on-one mentorship with industry experts and exclusive networking at the RIMPA Live Convention 2025, connecting with leaders, investors, and potential employers.
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Global Recognition & Industry Spotlight: Your project will be showcased in a RIMPA Global case study and featured at the RIMPA Live Convention 2026, offering exposure to industry professionals and potential funding opportunities.
Registration Costs
- It's Free to Register!
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Please note: One representatives from each shortlisted team will receive a complimentary ticket to the Diamond Ball, where the winner of the Hackathon will be announced. Formal attire is required - be sure to come prepared in your suit or ball gown
Why Participate
- Cutting-edge Innovation: Engage with the latest trends and technologies in information management through this hackathon, fostering creative problem-solving.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with developers, designers, and experts, allowing for idea sharing, learning, and potential future collaborations or mentorships.
- Skill Development: Enhance your information management skills by tackling real-world challenges and collaborating with experts, boosting your career.
- Impact and Recognition: Solve significant data management issues, potentially revolutionising industries and earning recognition for your innovative solutions.
- Personal Growth: Develop resilience, adaptability, and critical thinking in this fast-paced, challenging environment.
- Fun and Excitement: Enjoy the thrill of competition and camaraderie, brainstorming and working towards common goals with your team.
Who Can Enter
The Hackathon welcomes ANYONE who is passionate about problem solving!
Here are some key groups who should consider registering:
- University Students: Students pursuing degrees in information management, data, business, or related fields
- ICT Developers: Developers specialising in IM systems, databases, data integration, or data analytics
- Engineers: Engineers with a focus on information management, software engineering, or system design
- Data Scientists: Professionals skilled in data processing, statistical modelling, and machine learning
- IM Practitioners: Professionals experienced in information governance, quality, privacy, and security
- IM Vendors: Companies and providers of tools, software, and platforms for information management
Eligibility
- You must be a team of a minimum 2 and a maximum of 6
- At least 1 x team participants must attend in-person
- See the Hackathon Rules for a full list of eligibility criteria
Exclusive Sponsor
Innovation, out-of-the-box thinking, and fresh perspectives are crucial as we look towards the future of information management.
National Archives of Australia, the proud sponsor of the RIMPA Global Hackathon 2025, plays a crucial role in preserving and providing access to the documentary heritage of Australia. As a leading authority in records and information management, National Archives supports innovation and excellence in the industry. By sponsoring this hackathon, they demonstrate their commitment to fostering new solutions and technologies that enhance digitization, automation, and integration while ensuring the integrity and accessibility of vital records. Their support underscores the importance of this event in driving forward the future of information management practices!
For further information or clarification, please contact our Events Team at [email protected]