Pillar III: European Citizens' Hackathon Championship

The "European Citizens’ Hackathon Championship" is a Europe-wide innovation competition series that brings together researchers, citizens, local governments, and innovation centers in transdisciplinary teams. Over a period of three years (2027–2029), transnational consortia will annually organize a multi-stage hackathon, initially taking place in at least 14 cities and municipalities across Europe. The goal is the co-creation of innovative solutions based on existing research results. Winners from the local events qualify for the grand European final, where €60,000 in prize money will be evenly distributed among the top three teams. Accompanying this, participants will receive mentoring, technical advice, and training in innovation and entrepreneurship. The European Commission is providing a total of €3,000,000 in funding (100% funding rate, duration 48 months).

Funding is granted to consortia consisting of at least three independent legal entities from different EU or associated countries, including public institutions, companies, non-profit or research organizations. Eligible costs include personnel, material, travel expenses, and subcontractor services. Retroactive costs, debt settlement, and real estate acquisitions are excluded. The selection process evaluates the level of innovation, expected impact on knowledge transfer and citizen participation, as well as the quality and efficiency of implementation. Applications are open until 12 March 2026, 17:00 (Brussels time); the call opens on 10 December 2025. Required are a detailed schedule for three consecutive hackathon years, a financing plan, proof of legal status, and CVs of the project participants. The program strengthens trust in science through direct citizen participation while simultaneously fostering entrepreneurial skills throughout Europe.