Enabling Access for EdTechs in German Schools
As digitalisation transforms our society, schools must be empowered to use digital tools effectively – not only to enhance education but also to prepare students for active participation in a digital world. Innovative EdTech solutions already exist, ranging from digital learning platforms to AI-based tutoring systems and smart school management tools. These are developed by dynamic start-ups and experienced tech providers. However, these solutions often face significant obstacles to entry schools due to bureaucratic barriers, limited funding flexibility, and a general lack of systemic openness to innovation. So how can we bridge these gaps and create the structures, policies, and mindsets needed to bring schools and EdTech providers closer together?
Questions?
lena@be-useful.de
Who can join?
School administrators and policy makers can also participate.
13 - 14 NOV 2025
Register by 31 OCTBlended
Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 8, 49324 Melle - Germany
Access and Availability
Challenge and goals
Participants will work on innovative ways to open up the German educational ecosystem to EdTech collaboration, with a specific focus on:
- Laying the foundation for an entrepreneurial solution that addresses the problem
- Raising awareness among school administrators about the benefits of EdTech.
- Designing strategies for confronting education authorities with EdTech solutions.
- Suggesting policy and procedural changes to reduce administrative challenges and the high bureaucratic effort.
- Proposing platforms or channels for dialogue between schools, administrators, and EdTech providers.
- Developing ways to implement a culture of openness and experimentation with digital tools within the education system.
Expectations and requirements for the solutions and participants
Participants are expected to bring a strong motivation to contribute to the improvement of the education system and to work collaboratively towards innovative solutions. A spirit of openness, curiosity, and constructive dialogue is key. We welcome individuals who are willing to share their expertise, exchange perspectives, and actively engage in shaping ideas that can have a real and sustainable impact on schools and digital education.
Another important note is that the hackathon will mainly take place in German and that German is the main language for communication. Therefore, being able to speak and understand German on a high level is mandatory.
Available Support
Throughout the hackathon, participants will benefit from the guidance of dedicated mentors who bring expertise from fields such as digital education, EdTech, administration, and innovation. Mentors will support teams by providing feedback, helping to sharpen ideas, and offering advice.
In addition, participants will receive inspirational input sessions from experts and practitioners. These short, focused impulses are designed to open up new perspectives, spark creative thinking, and provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in digital education.