30 hours. 2 problems. Infinite ideas.
This kind of setup characterizes most hackathons, which are all about ideation, challenge, and shared experiences. The Minds & Machines hackathon, taking place on February 27–28, 2026, is organized by CraftHub in collaboration with GDE MIT, with the support of Microsoft. During the event, participants will be tasked with creating AI-based solutions to challenges in healthcare and education.
But what exactly is a hackathon? And why is it worth applying?
Give yourself a chance for professional growth by solving real-world problems
Hackathon challenges are usually designed by professionals who, through their experience and expertise, understand what constitutes realistic and relevant problems. Participants must develop solutions to these challenges, ranging from coding and artificial intelligence to UX/UI design.
These tasks are especially important because real-world scenarios require well-thought-out solutions from every perspective. As a result, professional development becomes inevitable – and therefore invaluable – since participants are required to create outside their comfort zones. This can be intimidating, but it is absolutely worth it, as the experience gained can be leveraged in the future.
Meet our mentors and build your network
Hackathons evaluate the realization of participants’ own ideas, but no one has to rely solely on themselves. On site, numerous professionals offer mentorship, providing guidance on questions, obstacles, and suggestions that arise along the way. Mentors are happy to help ensure that solutions are as strong as possible by the end of the 30 hours.
The Minds & Machines hackathon stands out because Microsoft is present as an official partner of the event. Participants will have the opportunity to meet Microsoft employees, as well as fellow participants and industry experts, making the event highly valuable from a networking perspective.
“To be able to meet and learn with some of the most prominent people in the software area is something like nothing else. And to be able to solve real-life challenges in 24 hours is a unique sensation.”
— Joao Anastácio da Rocha Almeida, Student Developer
Work in a team to create something truly great
Although it is possible to apply individually, a team’s combined ideas can lead to even greater progress. Team members learn together, solve problems, generate ideas, and strive toward a shared goal: creating the best possible solution. This experience is invaluable, as the ability to work effectively in a team is essential later in one’s career.
Teamwork is crucial because members continuously motivate each other to use their full potential, opening new doors and opportunities. Creating value together with others is an incredible experience – especially through such an intense challenge.
Win prizes and be the best
While gaining knowledge is already a major reward at a hackathon, the Minds & Machines hackathon also offers financial prizes for the most outstanding teams, along with valuable tech accessories:
- Grand Prize: €6,000
- Challenge Winner: €3,000 for the best teams in each category
- Audience Award: €1,000
The top 3 teams from each challenge advance to the final, where they can present their solutions in more detail. Based on these presentations, the winner of the grand prize will be selected.
If the four points above sparked your interest, you’re in the right place!
Register for the Minds & Machines hackathon and give yourself the chance to grow, gain unforgettable experiences, and win!
More information: https://bit.ly/gdemithackathon
Registration: https://bit.ly/gdemit_register
Join the conversation on Slack: https://bit.ly/gdemit_slack