YFN x EU Energy Hackathon

about this event

YFN x EU Hackathon 2026: Powering Europe's Energy Future. Date: September 27, 2026. Location: Munich. Time: 9:00-20:00.

Join ~80 students, researchers, young professionals, scientists, startups, and EU representatives for a one-day hackathon designing real solutions for Europe's energy and climate future, hosted as a side event of Bits & Pretzels 2026. Organised by the Young Founders Network e.V. in partnership with the European Commission Representation Munich and Europe Direct Munich.

What to expect:

Morning keynotes & breakout sessions across three tracks: People & Citizens: energy communities, just transition, crisis communication. Innovation & Business: startup models, investment trends, EU market opportunities. Infrastructure & Cybersecurity: grid architecture, energy security, resilience.

Hackathon (12:00-17:00): Interdisciplinary teams tackle a real-world energy challenge, from concept to prototype in one afternoon.

Pitch competition & award ceremony (18:00-20:00): Top 5 teams present to a jury of founders, policymakers, and scientists. Winners pitch on the main stage at Bits & Pretzels in front of thousands of founders and investors.

Cross-sector networking throughout the day, connect with the people actually building Europe's energy future. Whether you're a founder, researcher, student, or policy enthusiast: this is where you meet your co-founders, mentors, and the jury that takes your idea to the next level.

Apply now! Spots are limited to ~80 participants.

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