The AI Hackathon Playbook

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Mar 31, 2025

Jeff Gallimore, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Excella, shares his expertise on leveraging AI hackathons to enhance software delivery. He discusses best practices for integrating clients as judges and forming cross-functional teams, creating a bridge from prototypes to production. The conversation highlights the significance of cultural buy-in and strategic alignment for successful innovation. Plus, insights on how non-engineers can contribute to AI advancements using accessible tools like Canva and prompt engineering make this chat a must-listen for innovators.

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ADVICE

Intentional Hackathons

Be intentional about what you want out of a hackathon.
Define whether it's a delivery challenge, business opportunity, or a learning experience.

ADVICE

Rewards and Recognition

Recognize and reward participants for their contributions to make hackathons motivating.
Publicly acknowledge the event's importance and offer prizes for winners.

ADVICE

Enabling Constraints

Use enabling constraints to structure hackathons and enhance learning.
Provide scaffolding like pre-built pipelines and API keys.

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Want to unlock AI's potential in your organization? Skip the brainstorms and go all in with an AI Hackathon!

In this final installment of the Applied AI series, CMO Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf, and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao to break down why AI hackathons might be your best tool for driving adoption, sparking collaboration, and building lasting impact. Whether you’re a tech startup or a professional services firm, this episode gives you the blueprint.

Special guest Jeff Gallimore, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer of Excella, shares best practices from their GenAI-focused hackathons—including how engaging clients as judges and building cross-functional teams helped move ideas from prototype to production. From enabling constraints to cultural buy-in, Jeff explains how hackathons can be more than just a creative break—they can be a launchpad for real outcomes.

Courtney, David, and Mohan reflect on their own hackathon experiences and offer strategic advice on making hackathons successful—from aligning with your roadmap to ensuring outputs are built to scale. Plus, how non-engineers can thrive in AI innovation thanks to tools like Canva and prompt engineering.

All that PLUS Pete Buer breaks down the rise and fall (and jailbreak) of the Humane AI Pin. The big lesson? Innovation only sticks if it meets the market where it is.

Whether you’re running your first hackathon or looking to level up your next one, this episode is packed with practical tips, real stories, and a bit of good-natured competition.

Want to see what Knownwell’s platform can do with your data? Visit www.knownwell.com to get started.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Gu2jq1Ol_Z0

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