BUILD AROUND SPEED
Build a 5–30 second Blender animation around Speed. Animate by hand or use Blender Python, Geometry Nodes, simulations, and automation. Compete across nine award categories for $1,500 in cash and $3,500 in RenderJuice credits.
Racing, rapid transformation, machines, particles, creatures, time pressure, and abstract motion all qualify. Judges may also select additional Honorable Mentions.
PROGRAMMATIC TRACK
Build procedural systems or automate production with Blender Python, Geometry Nodes, simulations, or the RenderJuice API. Every accepted entry can win a Major Award. Code-driven and procedural entries can also win Best Procedural & Programmatic Animation.
HOW TO ENTER
1. Read the full details for the RenderJuice Programmatic Rendering Contest.
2. Create a free RenderJuice account.
3. Join the RenderJuice Discord, open #start-here, and click Join contest. The form is private. Your email will not appear in Discord.
4. Post your animation or public link, a short description, and one Blender work-in-progress image in #contest-submissions.
You may mirror the same project on Devpost. Submissions run from October 15, 2026 at 00:00 UTC through October 31, 2026 at 23:59 UTC. Community Choice voting closes November 3, 2026 at 23:59 UTC.
Requirements
WHAT TO BUILD
• One new 5–30 second animation about Speed.
• Blender must be the primary creation tool.
• Individuals and teams may enter. Each person may appear on one entry.
• You may use AI-generated or third-party assets when you hold the necessary rights and disclose their use.
• Procedural and programmatic entries may use Blender Python, the RenderJuice API, Geometry Nodes, simulations, or another automated workflow. Explain what your system controls.
WHAT TO SUBMIT
• A public video or video link showing the complete animation.
• A short description of your interpretation of Speed.
• At least one Blender work-in-progress image.
• Your name or team name.
• An AI and third-party asset disclosure.
• Workflow notes if you want consideration for Best Procedural & Programmatic Animation.
Official participation requires a free RenderJuice account, membership in the RenderJuice Discord, clicking Join contest in #start-here, and one Official Entry in #contest-submissions before the deadline. You may mirror the project on Devpost.
Prizes
First Place
$500 cash plus $750 in RenderJuice credits ($1,250 total value). Credits are valid for six months from the claim date.
Second Place
$250 cash plus $550 in RenderJuice credits ($800 total value). Credits are valid for six months from the claim date.
Third Place
$150 cash plus $400 in RenderJuice credits ($550 total value). Credits are valid for six months from the claim date.
Best RenderJuice Promo
$100 cash plus $300 in RenderJuice credits ($400 total value) for the best use of RenderJuice in the idea or story.
Best Procedural & Programmatic Animation
$100 cash plus $300 in RenderJuice credits ($400 total value) for the strongest animation made with procedural tools, code, or automation.
Community Choice
$100 cash plus $300 in RenderJuice credits ($400 total value). Discord visitors vote with fire reactions through November 3, 2026 at 23:59 UTC.
Best Simulation & FX
$100 cash plus $300 in RenderJuice credits ($400 total value) for the best use of Blender physics, simulation, or effects.
Best Motion Design
$100 cash plus $300 in RenderJuice credits ($400 total value) for the best use of movement, timing, and graphic design.
Funniest Animation
$100 cash plus $300 in RenderJuice credits ($400 total value) for the best joke or funny ending.
Devpost Achievements
Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:
Judges
RenderJuice Admins
Contest administrators, RenderJuice
Judging Criteria
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Major Awards scorecard
Major Awards use a 100-point scorecard: Idea 30 points; Animation 25 points; Visuals 25 points; Use of Speed 20 points. Specialty Awards are judged on the category requirement, idea, overall quality, and use of Speed.
Questions? Email the hackathon manager
Invite others to compete
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