October is here, and with it comes Hacktoberfest—an exciting annual event for Software Engineers. Since its launch over a decade ago by DigitalOcean, Hacktoberfest has evolved with changes to the rules and the types of contributions accepted. One of the most notable updates since 2022 is the inclusion of low-code and no-code contributions, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
Originally focused on encouraging contributions to open-source software, Hacktoberfest now invites non-coding professionals to get involved. From content creators and technical writers to usability testers and product designers, anyone can support their favorite open-source software (OSS) projects in diverse ways.
For non-coders in the tech industry interested in contributing, this article will highlight some great OSS projects to explore. Let’s get started.
Hyperswitch
Hyperswitch is an open-source global payment switching solution. Your Hacktoberfest contributions can include creating videos, writing tutorials, improving documentation, or supporting the community.
For every merged pull request or contribution, you can win exclusive Hyperswitch swag.
How to participate
- Explore the Hyperswitch GitHub repository for Hacktoberfest-tagged issues
- Join their community on Slack or Discord to discover more ways to contribute
Freecodecamp
FreeCodeCamp is a non-profit organization that provides accessible resources for learning how to code. They are currently overhauling their interactive lessons and are seeking contributions for knowledge quizzes. Each quiz consists of 20 questions on various topics.
How to participate
- Read their Hactoberfest contribution guideline
- Explore their GitHub repository to choose an issue to work
Owncast
Owncast is a free and open-source live video streaming and web chat server. They are accepting low-code and no-code Hacktoberfest contributions, including writing documentation, providing design feedback, and advocating for Owncast.
How to participate
- Start by reviewing Owncast's contributing guide.
- Find a "good first issue" on GitHub
- Install your own instance of Owncast, introduce yourself to the community, and begin contributing
Manifest
Manifest is a simple backend open-source solution designed to be lightweight enough to fit into a YAML file. Manifest is accepting low-code and no-code contributions, especially those related to creating tutorials.
How to participate
Visit Manifest’s GitHub repository and select an issue. Some issues already include suggested tutorials, but feel free to come up with your own ideas.
Tooljet
Tooljet is a low-code platform for building business applications. They are looking for low-code contributions, particularly those that improve documentation.
How to participate
- Start by reviewing Tooljet's contribution guide
- Pick an issue from their GitHub repository and start contributing
Hacktoberfest general rules
While each project may have its own set of rules, remember to also adhere to the official Hacktoberfest guidelines, which are available on the Hacktoberfest website.
Additionally, in your excitement to complete the required 4 pull requests or whatever metric the project uses, avoid submitting spam or low-quality contributions. Focus on providing meaningful, high-quality input. Remember, quality over quantity is what truly matters.
Additional resources
For more no or low-code open source projects to contribute to during Hacktoberfest, explore the following:
- OSS projects on Up-For-Grabs
- OSS projects on GitHub
- OSS projects on GitLab
NB: While many of these projects carry the "Hacktoberfest" tag, you may need to filter further to find no-code or low-code projects to contribute.
If I’ve missed any great low- or no-code OSS projects accepting contributions this Hacktoberfest, please share them in the comments section.
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