EUDIS Hackathon and Mentorship - LATVIA

1. What is the EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2025?

The EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2025 is a collaborative event designed to develop innovative solutions for pressing defence challenges. Participants will work on themes such as Enhanced Situational Awareness, Cost-Effective Protective Gear, and Advanced Medical Support for frontline defence.

2. Who can participate?

Citizens aged 18 or older from any EU Member State, Norway, or Ukraine, residing in these countries, are eligible to participate. Participants can include students, researchers, entrepreneurs, military personnel, or employees of companies. 

3. Do I need coding experience to join?

No, coding experience is not mandatory. The hackathon welcomes individuals with diverse skills, including business, design, and creative industries. Your unique perspective can significantly contribute to a team's success.

4. Is prior knowledge of defence technologies required?

No prior knowledge of specific defence technologies is necessary, despite welcomed. The hackathon will provide relevant training and access to data to help you succeed, even without prior experience.

5. How are participants selected?

Participants are selected based on their motivation and potential contribution. The selection process considers the information provided in your application, focusing on your passion for technology and innovation rather than your CV.

6. Can I participate if there's no hackathon location in my country?

Yes, you can apply to participate virtually at any of the hackathon's hybrid locations. Simply select a location that offers virtual participation during registration.

7. What is the cost of participation?

Participation in the EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2025 is free for all selected candidates.

8. Do I need to register with a team?

No, all participants must register individually. Teams can be formed after registration through the hackathon platform, with instructions provided upon completing the registration process. The actual participation however will require an idea submission and at least a team of 2.

9. Can I register multiple employees from my company at once?

No, each candidate must register and apply individually.

10. Is it necessary to have a project idea before the hackathon?

No, having a pre-existing concept during the registration phase is not required. However a project idea must be submitted by the team in order to participate before the hackathon weekend.

11. Can I bring a guest to the event?

No, only registered participants are allowed to attend the hackathon.

12. What should I do if I'm selected but cannot attend?

Please inform the organizers as soon as possible. Since spots are limited, this allows another candidate to participate in your place.

13. When will the event schedule be available?

A detailed schedule will be available closer to the event date on the official website.

14. Will there be a live stream of the event?

Yes, live streaming will be available through TAIKAI platform, focusing on main stage activities such as talks and contests. During downtime, a general transmission of the event might be provided.

15. Why is English the official language?

Given the international nature of the event, English is used to ensure clear communication among participants from various countries. However, some talks may be held in the local language of the hackathon location.

16. What does the evaluation for hardware projects look like? 

All projects are assessed by relevance, progress during the hackathon, innovativeness, and team quality. Complete hardware solutions aren't expected—prototypes or conceptual designs are encouraged. Facilities and support will be provided.

17. Where can we find detailed information about each hackathon location and their support offers?

The EUDIS website and TAIKAI platform list facilities, contacts, and schedules for each site. Pre-hackathon webinars and direct outreach to organizers are also helpful.

18. Is there a way to connect with national initiatives beyond this hackathon?

Yes. You'll meet stakeholders in European defence ecosystems and join the EUDIS matchmaking programme for broader exposure.

19. Can participants directly contact organizers with more questions?

Yes. Use contact@eudis-hackathon.eu or the website's Contact tab.

20. Can scientists from outside the EU, Ukraine, or Norway join if relocating?

No. Participants must be permanent citizens and residents of eligible countries.

21. Is it necessary to have a project idea ready before 9 May?

Highly recommended. Use matchmaking tools and webinars to brainstorm. Team formation will be supported during the event.

22. Is online participation possible?

Yes. Remote participation from the 8 hybrid locations is supported. Travel may be reimbursed depending on the local site.

23. What are the final prizes?

A 2-month acceleration program, expert sessions, EU-wide pitching, and local cash prizes (up to €5,000 in some cases).

24. How can participants access the Discord channel?

Once registered and accepted via TAIKAI, you'll get an invite to the Discord server.

25. What if my country isn’t listed as a hackathon site?

Join remotely via any of the 8 available hybrid locations.

26. Are individual students allowed, or only SMEs/startups?

Yes, students (18+) are welcome along with startups, SMEs, and research orgs.

27. Is the event newcomer-friendly?

Absolutely. First-time hackathon participants will receive guidance from mentors and organizers.

28. Can Ukrainian teams join any location?

Yes. They can register for and join any location remotely or in person.

29. What is the minimum number of participants per team?

Teams must have 2–5 members.

30. Are specific sensor lists available for the situational awareness challenge?

No predefined list. Mentors will help identify suitable technology during the hackathon.

31. Will the Ministry of Defence influence project direction?

No. Ministries help set themes but do not direct team roadmaps. They may provide feedback and mentorship.

32. Will there be bus transfers (e.g., Riga)?

Some locations, like Riga, will offer shuttle services. Confirm with your local organizer.

33. Must participants propose a completely new idea?

No. Existing projects are acceptable if they align with hackathon themes. Focus is on progress during the event.

For further inquiries, please contact: zic.info@rtu.lv