What is a
hackathon?

A hackathon is a competition in innovation. In a short period of time, often between 24 to 48 hours, participants called “hackers” work together in teams on a specific challenge. The goal is to create new digital solutions. Prior to the hackathon specific challenges are formulated, and these challenges are often made into a question. A jury then picks the winners according to a set of predefined criteria.

In our experience, a hackathon can be a very powerful tool to innovate and break down silos. When people from different backgrounds meet and cocreate, magic can and will happen. The experience of cocreation builds trust and shapes new connections that cross borders between people, borders between organisations and borders between sectors in society. This is the power of hackathons!