GSA announces AI hackathon and names Larry Bafundo as TMF Executive Director

The Daily Scoop Podcast

The GSA has announced an AI-themed hackathon, inviting the public to reimagine federal websites using artificial intelligence and cloud tools. Co-sponsored by OpenAI and Microsoft, the event will provide participants with access to large language models, coding technologies, and AI response consistency features. Scheduled for July 31 in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and New York City, the hackathon aims to prepare federal websites for a future where Americans rely on generative AI tools for information and services. A $10,000 prize pool will be awarded to winning participants and teams. Additionally, GSA has named Larry Bafundo as the executive director of the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF). Bafundo, who previously served as TMF's deputy executive director, has extensive experience in leading complex digital initiatives in both the public and private sectors. His appointment comes amidst calls from federal IT leaders and lawmakers to revitalize the TMF program, which is nearing the end of its America Rescue Plan funding.