While key moments and live programming associated with AI & Tech Sandbox will take place in Cannes, the Hackathon itself is a US-based, globally accessible online competition. Participants will receive the brief or the challenge in France. 

The hackathon officially begins on June 22. Participants will have until June 24 to develop and submit their solutions.

Each team will be asked to submit a working interactive prototype or demo, a recorded walkthrough of the solution, and a short presentation explaining their approach.

Finalists will be selected to submit a video presentation and demo. Finalist presentations will be featured on the AI & Tech Sandbox stage at Cannes Lions and streamed online, with finalists available for a live Q&A.

Participants will receive a challenge designed around real problems brands and consumers face today. The brief will focus on what’s possible with AI, automation, modern creative technology right now, and human judgement and ingenuity.

From there, the direction is yours.

No fixed format. No single way in.

Just the freedom to play with possibility.

We want you focused on ideas, not limitations.

- AI-generated code is encouraged
- Open-source tools are welcome
- Any tech stack of your choice

One requirement is to build responsibly. You’ll need to demonstrate clear thinking around:

- Security
- Scalability
- Data protection
- Brand safety

We're looking for ideas that can move beyond concept and become useful, scalable solutions for brands. Modern development approaches are encouraged, including AI-generated code and open-source technologies. Build responsibly with clear thinking around:

Teams must submit all three of the following:

We’re bringing together innovation, creativity, and connection through a series of standout experiences. It's a place to pause, connect and refresh between sessions.

Discover how to become future-ready.