> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.boundlessfi.xyz/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Judging system

> How hackathon submissions are judged and winners selected on Boundless.

Hackathon submissions on Boundless are evaluated through a configurable judging system. Organizers set criteria and judges; scores determine winners and prize distribution.

## How it works

1. **Criteria** The organizer defines what judges score (e.g., innovation, execution, design, use of theme).
2. **Judges** Designated judges (or the organizer) score each submission.
3. **Scoring** Scores are combined (e.g., average or weighted) to rank submissions.
4. **Winners** Top-ranked projects win prizes according to the event’s prize structure. Funds release from escrow to winners.

## For participants

* Submit before the deadline and ensure your demo/repo meets the event rules.
* Judging is based on the published criteria; no need to do anything extra unless the organizer requests it.

## For organizers

* Set clear, measurable criteria so judges can score consistently.
* Add or assign judges in the event dashboard and define how scores are aggregated.

## Related

* [Hackathons overview](/contributors/hackathons/overview)
* [Participating](/contributors/hackathons/join-and-submit)
* [Organizing](/organizers/host-a-hackathon)
* [Post-event milestones](/contributors/hackathons/post-event-milestones)