Consensys Hackathon
Consensys
Description
Consensys Hackathons are Ethereum-focused coding competitions organized by Consensys, the leading Ethereum software company behind MetaMask, Infura, and Truffle. These hackathons offer $50K-$200K in prizes and attract developers building on Ethereum and Layer 2 solutions. While less frequent than ETHGlobal events, Consensys hackathons often focus on specific themes like MetaMask integrations, L2 scaling, or DeFi infrastructure.
For ZHC builders, Consensys hackathons provide direct access to the tools and teams that power Ethereum infrastructure. Winning or placing well can lead to Consensys grants, incubation, and direct mentorship from the team behind the most-used Ethereum wallet (MetaMask) and infrastructure (Infura). These events are particularly valuable for builders creating developer tools, wallets, or infrastructure.
Eligibility
Event Structure
- Frequency: 2-3 events per year
- Duration: 2-4 weeks (typically virtual)
- Format: Online with potential IRL components
- Prize pool: $50K-$200K
- Theme: Often focused (MetaMask, L2, DeFi, etc.)
Common Tracks
- MetaMask Snaps (wallet extensions)
- Infura and Infrastructure
- DeFi and Web3 Applications
- Developer Tooling
- Layer 2 Solutions
- Security and Auditing
Participation Requirements
- Open to all developers
- Must use Consensys tools or Ethereum
- Projects typically built during event
- Individual or team participation
Judging Criteria
- Innovation and technical implementation
- Use of Consensys products (MetaMask, Infura, etc.)
- Practical utility and user experience
- Presentation quality
ZHC-Specific Fit
✅ Excellent for:
- Building on Ethereum infrastructure
- MetaMask integration projects
- Developer tooling and utilities
- Access to Consensys ecosystem
- Potential for ongoing grants/support
❌ Poor fit if:
- Building on competing blockchains
- No use of Ethereum/Consensys stack
- Prefer larger, more frequent events (see ETHGlobal)
Application Process
Hackathon Timeline
| Phase | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Announcement | 4-6 weeks before | Theme and tracks revealed |
| Registration | 2-4 weeks before | Sign up for event |
| Workshops | Week 1 | Technical sessions on tools |
| Building | Weeks 1-3 | Hackathon period |
| Submission | Deadline | Project submission |
| Judging | 1 week | Review and scoring |
| Winners | Final | Results and prizes |
Prize Categories
| Category | Typical Prize Range |
|---|---|
| Grand Prize | $15K-$30K |
| Track Winners | $5K-$15K |
| Sponsor Prizes | $1K-$10K |
| Participation | Swag, POAPs, credits |
Beyond Prizes
- Consensys grants program access
- Potential incubation opportunities
- MetaMask Snap distribution consideration
- Infura credits and support
- Direct mentorship from Consensys engineers
- Ecosystem introductions
- Job opportunities at Consensys