This document provides tips and examples for winning hackathons and startup competitions. It advises having an original, flexible idea and building the minimum viable product. It also stresses the importance of naming the business, assembling the right team, gathering feedback, preparing an effective demonstration, and understanding the audience and goals. Examples are given of past projects started by the author that illustrate both best practices and mistakes to avoid at hackathons. The overall message is that entering these events provides opportunities to create successful new companies.