McMaster, Columbia International College and Mohawk students have a chance to win $250 in gift certificates for downtown businesses by simply submitting a name and logo for an exciting new mobile app that will highlight jobs, events, accommodations and transportation in downtown Hamilton.

Designed by Hamilton-based Weever Apps, the Hamilton Map App is the result of a partnership between The City of Hamilton, McMaster University, Columbia International College, Mohawk College and Weever Apps.

“The application keeps our young people in touch with the pulse of the city and will encourage growth,” says Gisela Oliveira, Employment Service Coordinator with the Student Success Centre. “It’s an opportunity for students to educate other students about Hamilton’s hidden gems.”

The contest runs from August 24 to September 9. Participants are asked to submit an app name and a 64 by 64 pixel logo in png or jpg format to Hamilton Map App Contest. The first, second and third prize winners will be announced on Sept 11. The creator of the winning submission will receive $250 from local businesses in the downtown, coverage from Hamilton media and a feature in a promotional video for the app. The second place winner will be awarded a gift certificate for his or her campus bookstore and the third place winner will receive a free mobile app from Weever Apps.

The app will be available to students during Welcome Week (September 1 to 9) and will focus on a downtown pilot area from the Escarpment to Bayfront Park and from Wentworth to Dundurn Street. Users will have access to job postings, coupons from local businesses and discounts for local events such as concerts. They will also be able to pin locations on the app and obtain directions and bus route information, making exploring Hamilton easier and more interactive.

Prizes

The awarded winner of the design contest will earn bragging rights for creativity and originality on a first-ever collaborative initiative between educational institutions and the city. As well, some sweet prize giveaways up for grabs. Here’s what you can win:

1st Place – Gift certificates with value of $250 from local businesses in the downtown core, coverage Hamilton media institutions and a feature in a promo video for the app.

2nd Place – Gift certificate from the winner’s campus bookstore.

3rd Place – Free mobile app from Weever Apps.

Rules for Participation