New challenge invites developers worldwide to build solutions using Arduino UNO Q across AI, IoT and edge applications

PHOENIX - Hackster, an Avnet Community, has launched a new global competition in collaboration with Arduino, Qualcomm and Edge Impulse that invites engineers, developers and technologists to build innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

The competition calls on participants to use the Arduino UNO Q to develop projects across robotics, home automation, gaming, industrial IoT and social impact. Open to individuals worldwide, the challenge is designed for both experienced developers and newcomers, encouraging creativity, experimentation and practical problem-solving.

"This competition is about empowering innovators to push boundaries and build what's next, whether they're passionate about AI, IoT, edge computing or simply love creating new technology," said Dianne Kibbey, Senior Director, Community Strategy and Hackster.io at Avnet. "It's an opportunity to turn bold ideas into real-world solutions and inspire the future of connected intelligence."

Hackster will award tens of thousands of dollars in prizes to the top six qualifying projects, selected by judges based on published criteria. To help participants get started, 300 Arduino UNO Q (4GB) boards will be given away, with additional boards available for purchase.

In addition to cash prizes, participants have the opportunity to gain global visibility for their projects. The competition's Best in Show winner will receive a paid trip to Maker Faire Rome 2026 to showcase their work.

By combining the Arduino UNO Q platform with Arduino App Lab, the competition aims to highlight how AI-powered, edge-based solutions can address real-world challenges while showcasing the ingenuity of the global developer community.

The competition is open now, with applications closing April 5. Final projects are due August 30, and winners will be announced in September 2026.

More information about the competition, including rules and registration details, is available at https://www.hackster.io/contests/invent-the-future-with-arduino-uno-q-and-app-lab.