Are you still thinking of hosting a DigiEduHack hackathon this year but fear it is too late to join? It is not!

Let’s explore tips and tricks from our experts and past hosts on how to host an event even with limited time, budget, or resources.

How to host a hackathon with minimal budget?

Are you worried about not being able to find sufficient financial resources to organise your hackathon? Our steering group member and recurring DigiEduHack host, Davide Coppaloni Delfino, had several insights to share:

• Sponsorship: Seek sponsors who can provide either financial support or in-kind contributions, such as catering, stationery, or participant goodies.

• Synergies with existing programmes: Teamwork makes better work. Think of linking your DigiEduHack hackathon to one of your university or middle school courses to build on existing structures.

• Online hosting: Host your hackathon online, using platforms like Discord to organise cost-effective yet engaging hackathons.

• Back to basics: Hosting does not require a lot of financial resources – pens and paper or laptops, one room (if your hackathon is in person) and a bunch of participants ready to hack! What matters most, according to Davide, is that students get the chance to share and discuss their solutions with peers from different countries and cultures.

How to organise a hackathon with limited time?

If you hesitate about not having enough time to host a hackathon this year, our team is here to help you set up one swiftly! Tudor Lapp, who has been hosting a DigiEduHack hackathon in Moldova for several years now, shared his experience with participants.

• Make use of the resources: DigiEduHack provides ready-to-use marketing kits, presentations, templates, and social media materials designed to lighten the organisational load. These can serve as your check list and make planning less overwhelming.

• Leverage the DigiEduHack global network: DigiEduHack National Ambassadors are available across different countries to provide guidance and advice even in your national language.

• Feed the discussions: The DigiEduHack website offers many learning opportunities like webinars and podcasts to spark topics of discussion that can eventually inspire your challenges.

• Contact us: We are just an email away to help the organisation of your hackathon run as smooth as possible! Reach us at contact@digieduhack.com!

How to recruit and engage participants quickly?

Once you publish your hackathon, the following step is recruiting participants. Whether a tech whiz, a creative genius, a curious learner or just interested in digital education, anyone is invited to participate in this global movement!

With an efficient communications strategy, our team’s advice and tips by our experts, you can quickly engage participants to join:

• Make registrations easy: A key tip is to include QR codes on your promotional materials, navigating participants directly to your event on the DigiEduHack website.

• No team, no problem: Participants can join as individuals or part of a team. Help those joining individually connect with others to form a new team or join an existing one.

• DigiEduHack global map: All published hackathons appear on our global map, making it easier for participants to find their favourite projects.

How to keep the hackathon format simple but impactful?

You do not need to be very ambitious in the reach or scope of your hackathon. As long as the structure is clear and participants receive ready-to-follow instructions, the hackathon can result in a great experience for all.

• Be clear: Clear communication and straightforward timelines are recommended to ensure smooth planning and delivery.

• Use a checklist as a guide: Prepare a checklist to ensure every step is taken and that the hackathon runs smoothly.

Did you miss the online session?

Check out the DigiEduHack’s coaching call videos explaining step by step how to host and check the website with all the information you need to start planning your hackathon! Contact us for any question or book a direct call with us.

Registration for hosts is open until 20 October! All info here.