More than a competition: How EU Code Week Hackathons can empower Europe’s next generation of digital innovators
08/07/26
When people think of hackathons, they often picture coding marathons, innovative ideas, and competitive teams racing against the clock, but the feedback from the EU Code Week Hackathons tells us a bigger story.
The evaluation of this year’s EU Finals shows that hackathons are not only an engaging way to develop digital skills, but also powerful learning experiences that build confidence, foster collaboration across borders, and connect classrooms with the real world.
A well-organised experience that kept learners engaged
The EU Code Week Hackathons received overwhelmingly positive feedback from organisers. Respondents agreed that the event was well organised, ran smoothly, and successfully engaged learners throughout the competition.
Participants also felt that the hackathon challenges struck the right balance. They were demanding enough to encourage learners to develop complex digital solutions, while remaining achievable for teams with different levels of experience.
Building the skills that matter
While digital skills were at the heart of the hackathon experience, the learning extended far beyond coding. Participants developed practical technical skills by building prototypes and using tools such as GitHub and Canva. At the same time, they strengthened essential transversal skills including Communication and presentation; collaboration and teamwork; creativity and innovation; problem-solving; and time management.
Learning without borders
One of the strongest themes emerging from the evaluation was the value of international collaboration. By working and presenting in English, learners gained confidence communicating with peers from different countries and cultures. The cross-border nature of the competition helped participants develop intercultural understanding while experiencing first-hand what it means to work in an international team.
The hackathon format also demonstrated the value of peer mentoring. University students supported teams throughout the competition, providing technical guidance while acting as relatable role models. Organisers noted that learners viewed these mentors as a direct link to future study and career opportunities.
As one respondent explained: “They got in contact with the real world’s jobs and they got to try new ways to engage in orientation. Mentors (university students) were positively impactful because learners felt they were a direct link with their future opportunities. This cross-aged tutoring was effective.”
Turning ideas into real-world impact
Perhaps the most inspiring finding was that many projects did not end when the competition finished. Some teams presented their ideas to wider audiences, including well-known influencers, while others continued developing their solutions after the event. One team’s educational app is already being used across multiple classes in their school, demonstrating how hackathons can create solutions with lasting impact.
The evaluation also showed that hackathons help learners better understand how classroom skills connect to real careers in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Growing confidence through challenge
Hackathons naturally involve pressure. Tight deadlines, teamwork, and competition pushed learners outside their comfort zones. Some participants initially felt unsure of their technical abilities or found the pace challenging, while thers experienced stress during intensive working sessions.
However, organisers consistently reported that supportive mentoring, collaborative teams, and effective facilitation helped learners overcome these barriers. By the end of the experience, many participants had gained confidence in using digital tools, presenting ideas publicly, and contributing to team projects.
As one organiser reflected: “Hackathons appeared to have a strong positive impact on many learners. Participants often became more confident in using digital tools, collaborating in teams, and presenting their ideas publicly.”
More than a hackathon
The feedback from the EU Code Week Hackathons reinforces an important message: hackathons are about much more than developing digital solutions. They help young people gain practical skills, discover career pathways, build confidence, collaborate across cultures, and see that their ideas can make a real difference.
When learners leave believing that they can solve real-world challenges, work with international teams, and turn ideas into reality, the impact extends far beyond the competition itself.
Ready to be part of the next success story? Whether you’re an educator, school, mentor, or learner, there is a place for you in the next round of hackathons. Don’t miss the chance to develop future-ready skills and turn your ideas into reality!
