Austin Community College District (ACC) students are invited to participate in RiverHacks. The two-day hackathon brings together students, developers, designers, and community-minded problem-solvers to build tech-driven solutions that tackle real-world civic challenges. 

This year’s event focuses on Civic Innovation—with students developing tech-powered solutions that support public safety, transportation, and critical infrastructure in partnership with the City of Austin.

Dates: Saturday, April 26 – Sunday, April 27
Time: Begins 9 a.m. on April 26 and ends 5 p.m. on April 27
Location: Center for Government and Civic Service (CGCS), ACC Rio Grande Campus
What: Participants are empowered to imagine and create tools that strengthen communities, improve access to public services, and support local impact. 
Register: HERE

“Events like RiverHacks show the power of our students and our city working together. We are a hub for solving real-world problems and strengthening our community,” says La Tasha Roberts, Bachelor of CyberSecurity Coordinator. “Events like this are higher education in action! Our students aren’t just learning—they’re building solutions that can directly improve how Austin serves its people.”

Participants will collaborate with local leaders, developers, and designers to imagine tools that strengthen city services, improve emergency response, and enhance access to public infrastructure. Teams will develop solutions that make a tangible difference in how the City approaches critical issues.

Winning ideas may be selected for continued development with the City to advance its strategic priorities.

RiverHacks serves as a pipeline for innovation in Austin, giving students and community members the chance to co-create solutions with lasting civic impact. From improving transit navigation to building emergency apps and data dashboards, the hackathon builds tools that make local government smarter, faster, and more equitable.

About RiverHacks

RiverHacks is an annual hackathon focused on civic tech and social good. Hosted by Austin Community College’s Center for Government & Civic Service, it empowers students to solve challenges in areas like housing, education, healthcare, and mobility. Participants receive mentorship, resources, and workshops before presenting projects at a final showcase.

For more information, visit austincs.org/riverhacks.