DevSoc Starlight 2026

The challenge

Starlight is DevSoc’s open project showcase that celebrates bringing ideas to life by passionate and aspiring engineers. The event is open-floor, free for anyone to attend, and fully catered. Participants can share their work with a live audience, spark conversations with other builders, and get inspired by what others are creating. Whether it’s a side project, something you’ve been grinding for a while, or even an old idea you want to bring back to life, you are welcome to submit your project.

Required tech & constraints

• Eligibility: Above legal age of majority in country of residence, students only, and only specific countries/territories included.
• Presentation: You will receive your own stall at UNSW Roundhouse for presenting your project live.
• Hardware/Software: Notify organizers of any extra items you would like to demo (e.g., hardware components, laptops for interaction).

Submission requirements

STEP 1 - Submit your project on Devpost:

• Include a poster PDF (A3) outlining your project. Full requirements and restrictions can be found in the handbook.
• Add supporting links (GitHub, demo, etc.).
• Examples of previously accepted posters are available here.

STEP 2 - Get selected for showcase:

• DevSoc will review submissions.
• You will be emailed if selected to present.

STEP 3 - Present at Starlight:

• Showcase your project live to attendees and judges.

Judging criteria

• Based on Prizes (specific criteria not detailed, but prize categories are listed).

Prizes

• $1,050+ in cash
• Best Project - 1st Place: $300 cash (1 winner)
• Best Project - 2nd Place: $150 cash (1 winner)
• First Steps - 1st Place: $200 cash (1 winner)
• First Steps - 2nd Place: $100 cash (1 winner)
• UniLife - 1st Place: DevSoc/Sponsor Merch (1 winner)
• UniLife - 2nd Place: DevSoc/Sponsor Merch (1 winner)
• People's Choice: $100 cash + DevSoc/Sponsor Merch (1 winner)
• Hobby: $200 cash (1 winner)
• Highest Impact: DevSoc/Sponsor Merch (1 winner)