Ostalb Hackathon 2026

11:00 am – Welcome & get to know each other (Aalen University - Digital Innovation Space, Ground Floor)

11:30 pm – Lunch

12:30 pm – Departure to the company visit with your challenge provider

1:00 pm – Check-in (Aalen University - Digital Innovation Space, Ground Floor)

1:30 pm – Opening

1:45 pm – Organization, rules, and schedule

2:15 pm – Challenge pitches

2:30 pm – Coffee break & Finalization of the teams

3:00 pm – Design Thinking crash course

3:30 pm – Challenge deep dive

4:30 pm – Hacking, food & fun

09:00 am – Breakfast (optional)

10:00 am – Official start of the day

10:00 am – Q&A + feedback sessions

12:30 pm – Lunch

02:00 pm – Pitch workshop

04:00 pm – Q&A + feedback sessions

05.00 pm - Pre-Pitch-Stage

06:30 pm – Dinner

09:00 am – Breakfast (optional)

10:00 am – Official start of the day

12:00 pm - Submission Deadline

12:00 pm – Lunch

01:00 pm – Final pitches

02:30 pm – Jury session

03:00 pm – Award ceremony and closing

03:30 pm – Get-together (open end)

Can I still participate?
Yes, there are still a few wildcard spots left. Just fill out the form and we will get back to you

Can I also participate if I am not from Aalen?
No, the hackathon is only open to students from our university in Germany

Can I join alone or do I need a team?
You can also sign up alone – the teams will be formed on site

How are the teams formed?
The teams are formed on site to bring together different skills and backgrounds

Can I choose the challenge?
You can indicate a preference, but the final assignment will be done on site

Do I need programming skills to participate?
No, programming skills are not required – skills in design, business, or concept development are also welcome

Do I need prior knowledge in innovation or start-ups?
No, you do not need any special prior knowledge – motivation and openness are enough

How intensive is the event and how much time do I need to plan during the hackathon?
You should be present for all program points – the days are full of content, but there are enough breaks and time to relax

Does participation cost anything?
No, participation is completely free

What about food and drinks?
Food and drinks are included – everything is taken care of during the event

Is the event overnight?
No, the event does not run overnight and there are no accommodation options

What do I need to bring to the hackathon?
Basically just your laptop and everything you need to work

In which language will the hackathon take place?
The hackathon will mainly be in English, as there are also international participants

What do I gain from participating?
You gain practical experience, work on real challenges, and meet new people from different disciplines

Do I get ECTS or WLS for participating?
Yes, WLS will be awarded for participation – the exact number is still being clarified

Will I receive a certificate of participation?
Yes, all participants will receive a certificate of participation

Is there something to win?
Yes, the winning team will receive €100 per person

Is it more of a competition or about learning and exchange?
Both – there is a competition, but the clear focus is on learning, trying things out, and exchange

Will I get support during the hackathon?
Yes, you are not on your own. During the hackathon, you will receive regular feedback and support to help you develop your ideas further

What if I get stuck on my challenge?
No problem – that’s exactly what we are here for. You can ask questions at any time and get support to move forward again

What happens to the ideas after the hackathon?
Good ideas can be further developed – depending on the interest of the teams and partners

What happens to the ideas after the hackathon?
Good ideas can also be developed further after the event – for example together with the challenge providers or within your own team

Can I stay in contact with companies after the hackathon?
Yes, the hackathon is also a great opportunity to build connections that can last beyond the event

I am not directly involved in the hackathon – can I still stop by?
Yes, of course. Just get in touch with Chris (see below)

Are there times when visiting is not possible?
Basically, it is a closed event. If you are interested in stopping by, just send Chris a short message – we will surely find a solution

Where does the hackathon take place?
The hackathon takes place in the Digital Innovation Space at Aalen University (Anton-Huber-Straße, 73430 Aalen – the round building near the roundabout)

Can I still get involved or contribute?
Yes, just get in touch with Chris directly (see below) – we are happy about any support and exchange

Can I also get involved in future hackathons?
Definitely. If you are interested, feel free to reach out to us – also with a view to upcoming events