FAQ
Your Questions, Answered!
Everything you need to know about taking part in HackMeridian: applying, hacking, the two tracks, prizes, getting to Lisbon, and where to stay.
Applying
Do I need Stellar experience?
No. Come ready to build and learn fast.
Can I apply with an existing project?
Yes. Scale is designed for teams pushing an existing concept further.
Can I apply alone?
Yes. We'll help with team formation during the event.
Is AI-assisted development allowed?
Yes. Tools like Claude Code, Cursor, and other AI copilots and agents are welcome.
How do I apply?
Use the Apply button anywhere on the site. It takes you to registration, where you'll answer a few questions about your team and idea.
Hacking
What can I build?
Anything on Stellar. Genesis teams start from an idea.
Scale teams push an existing product further.
What support is available while I'm building?
Stellar engineers, technical mentors, and product experts are on site, alongside workshops and office hours.
I don't have a team yet. What happens?
We help with team formation at the start of the event, so solo applicants are welcome.
What happens after HackMeridian?
Top projects move forward into the Stellar ecosystem with funding pathways, mentorship, partnerships, and community support.
HackMeridian also runs directly before the Meridian conference.
Categories & Tracks
What are the participation categories?
HackMeridian has two tracks: Genesis and Scale.
Who is Genesis for?
First-time founders, emerging builders, domain experts, and multidisciplinary teams working on a new idea or early prototype.
Who is Scale for?
Experienced founders, product teams, developers, or startups who have previously built or shipped products, with an existing product or advanced prototype. Experience does not need to be on Stellar.
What Stellar technologies should I focus on?
Smart contracts, smart accounts, and cross-chain transfers are the top priorities this year.
What should my project documentation include?
A clear README that shows how your project works, including its specs. That does most of the work for judges.
How are projects judged?
By a panel of mentors and judges who spend time with teams throughout the event, so scoring reflects what each team actually built and overcame.
Getting There
Where is HackMeridian held?
ONE16, Lisbon.
When is HackMeridian?
Sunday 25 – Monday 26 October 2026.
Is travel support available?
Yes, for selected participants based on availability and need.
Prizes
How much can I win?
Up to $30,000 in XLM across the Genesis and Scale tracks. The final breakdown is announced before the event.
Who judges?
A panel from the Stellar ecosystem and partners. The criteria are published on the Build page.
Accommodation
Is accommodation provided?
A limited number of hostel beds are available for builders on travel support. Everyone else books their own.
Where should I stay?
Anywhere near ONE16. Lisbon's metro and trams make most neighbourhoods practical.
Still have a question? Email meridian@growwithguava.com.