Kit Lab Logo

Kit Lab

build software, get hardware

What is this?

A Hack Club YSWS program where you ship software projects with certain themes to get electronic kits.

100% online. Completely free.

Build anything on the theme like:

How It Works

  1. Sign up using the RSVP button
  2. Build software projects based on specific themes.
  3. Track your software building time using Hackatime.
  4. Once you meet the theme and minimum hour requirements, we ship you a hardware kit!
  5. Build projects using the hardware in your kit (LEDs, PCBs, microcontrollers, etc.) based ONLY on the kit's theme.
  6. Log your project time (not software time) by journalling on the website every 60-90 minutes.
  7. Every hour spent on your hardware project earns you 5 tokens (1 token ≈ $1 USD).
  8. Once we reach our RSVP goal of 150, you'll be able to use your tokens in the shop for prizes!

Join the Program

RSVP Goal: 150

Note: Kit Lab is currently in the RSVP phase. The program is not yet official and will launch once we reach our goal of 150 RSVPs.

FAQ

What is this program? ▼
Kit Lab is a Hack Club YSWS program. You build software projects based on themes, track your time using Hackatime, and ship your projects. In return, you get electronics kits. Then you build hardware projects on the theme of the kit and earn tokens for prizes.
Who can participate? ▼
Anyone ages 13-18 who isn't banned from Hack Club. You just need to build software projects that meet the theme and hour requirements to get started!
How does earning tokens work? ▼
Every hour spent on building hardware projects (after receiving your kit) earns you 5 tokens. Each token is approximately equivalent to 1 USD. You can spend these tokens in the shop for various prizes like giftcards, universal PCBs, and more.
How is time tracked? ▼
Software development time is tracked using Hackatime. Once you get your kit, hardware project time is tracked by journalling on the website every 60-90 minutes. Once we reach our RSVP goal of 150, the full website with journalling and the shop will be launched. Until then, join the #kit-lab channel on Slack.
What can I spend grant credit on? ▼
You can spend tokens on prizes in the shop, including electronic components, giftcards, and other hardware. Check the `#kit-lab` channel for updates on available prizes!
What kind of hardware is available? ▼
Hardware is new. We also have surplus and slightly damaged hardware that will be clearly noted. This surplus hardware won't be sold in the shop - instead, it's used for random prizes, raffles, and rewards.
How can I get more information? ▼
If you have any questions or need help with anything, just join the #kit-lab channel in the Hack Club Slack! You can ask for help there, and the community will be happy to assist you.

Program Rules

  • No cost to participate
  • Online participation only
  • Ages 13-18
  • Must not be banned from HackClub/Hackatime.
  • Grants managed through HCB (HackClubBank)
  • Subject to Hack Club program rules, availability, and Code of Conduct

Sponsors

If you are interested in sponsoring or donating hardware, contact kit.lab.contact@gmail.com

A Hack Club YSWS program. Hack Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.