The Blue Way Hackathon 2025 is more than a competition – it’s a 48-hour sprint of creativity, technology, and teamwork where ideas become market-ready solutions. Set in the vibrant ecosystem of the Blue Economy, this cross-border italia-Croazia event is your chance to tackle real-world challenges in smart digitalization and process optimization for the nautical sector.
Whether you're a graduated, student, but also a start-upper in the Nautical industry enthusiast – this is your arena. Join forces with a diverse crowd of innovators and shape the next wave of maritime technology.
What to Expect
48 hours of pure innovation: Work in teams to solve authentic problems submitted by nautical SMEs.
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Bring your tech skills, design mindset, or business acumen – there’s a challenge waiting for you.
Expert mentorship & networking: Get guidance from industry professionals and connect with key players in the blue economy.
Real impact: Your ideas could evolve into real services or products with potential adoption by participating businesses.
Why Join?
By taking part in the Blue Way Hackathon, you’ll gain:
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A Certificate of Participation, recognized as a valuable professional experience
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The chance to co-develop solutions with real impact
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A unique opportunity to connect directly with SMEs in the nautical industry – companies that may reach out to you after the event for internships, collaborations, or career opportunities
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Entry into the BLUESLINKS Innovation Hub, a network created under the Interreg Italy–Croatia Programme, aimed at transforming traditional maritime sectors through innovation and smart specialization
This is not just an event — it’s a launchpad for future opportunities.
Who Can Join?
The Hackathon is open to:
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University graduates
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Young startuppers, whether they’ve already launched their business or are in the early planning stages
Eligible participants must be:
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Italian or Croatian nationals, or
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Individuals of any other nationality who are currently studying or working in Italy or Croatia
The Hackathon is designed to foster cross-border collaboration and bring together talented minds from both sides of the Adriatic.
When & Where
22–23 May 2025
Polyfunctional Hall, Faculty of Engeneering - Via Brecce Bianche, 12
Ancona, Italy
Partecipation&Access
The event will take place in person in Ancona, Italy.
The opening and orientation session, as well as the final award ceremony, will be open to the public and also accessible remotely via an online platform.
The official language of the Hackathon is English, to ensure smooth cross-border collaboration. However, support staff and facilitators fluent in both Italian and Croatian will be available throughout the event to assist participants as needed.
Ready to innovate the Nautical Sector?
Spaces are limited — don’t miss your chance to connect, learn, and grow in the heart of the Blue Economy.
Register now and become a change-maker in the nautical sector!
AGENDA