The inaugural Inspire Hackathon at Barry University was a great success showing that real innovation can be sparked anywhere. Hosted by the AI Center and DX Lab, the event invited students to build a live prototype for Mealo, a student-founded startup developed Milosz Mencel. What made this hackathon extraordinary were the student teams. They took full ownership from planning, organizing, and executing every detail from beginning to end.

In just three hours, participants built impressive, functional prototypes that showcased their design skills, technical talent, and ability to collaborate under pressure. Their work demonstrated not only what they have learned, but what they are capable of building when given the freedom to innovate. It was a powerful reminder of why the AI Center and DX Lab exists: to cultivate builders, problem-solvers, and future founders.

This event is part of a growing effort to create an environment where student founders can bring their startup ideas to life, supported by talented peers from the DX Lab. Each term, a new Inspire Hackathon will challenge students to build and test real product concepts, with the long-term goal of launching several student-built apps and technology solutions every year.

The event would not have been possible without the generous support of judges who volunteered their time and expertise, including Bobby Henderson, Yuliya Shumilina, Marcin Ladowski, Katya Matusevich, Steve Arman, and Lilia Restrepo. Their presence gave students invaluable feedback and a glimpse into the world of product development and entrepreneurship.

The success of the Inspire Hackathon marks the beginning of something bigger. The AI Center and DX Lab hope to spark more moments like this with more student founders, more bold ideas, and more opportunities.