AI HACKATHON
HACK THE FUTURE
Build real AI solutions for real companies.
Join 350+ hackers, builders, and future leaders for the biggest AI hackathon in Northern Germany, right at the heart of the Future Leader Summit 2026. Pick one of 9 challenges from leading companies. Build a working prototype. Pitch it. Win. No fluff, no theory, just shipping.
- 9.-10. April
- 350+ Hackers
- Hamburg
WHY JOIN?
300+ builders. 9 challenges. 24 hours. Here’s why you don’t want to miss this.
- 24h just coding - Stay on-site, code until sunrise, and experience the energy of 300 builders under one roof.
- Build with purpose - Solve real business challenges from top companies, not toy problems
- Meet your people - Connect with 300+ ambitious builders, founders, and tech talent
- Get discovered - Pitch directly to company leaders. Some challenge partners are actively hiring
- Win prizes - Cash, credits, company visits, and more from every challenge partner
- Everything's covered - Food, drinks, snacks, sleeping spots. Just bring your laptop
What awaits you
24H Hacking Nonstop. No Limits.
24 hours to go from zero to prototype. Code through the night, fuel up on coffee and ambition, and build something that didn't exist yesterday. This is where ideas become real.
350 Hackers One Roof. Endless Potential.
350 of the most ambitious builders, thinkers, and creators - all in one building, all working toward the same goal. The energy is unmatched. The connections last way beyond the event.
9 Challenges. Real Problems. Real Companies.
Nine challenges from leading companies across industries - from biotech to fintech, software to logistics. Pick the one that excites you most and build a solution that could actually ship.
Challenge Partners
tech Partners
COMMUNITY Partners
How It Works:
9 challenges, 6 teams per challenge, 4–6 people per team. You don’t need to be a developer – we need product thinkers, designers, and strategists too. Apply now and join us!
- Apply - Submit your application via our form. Solo or with a team.
- Get accepted - We review all applications and get back to you within two weeks.
- Confirm your spot - Secure your place by completing a short confirmation form within 48h - or your spot goes to the next in line.
- Get matched - We assign you to a challenge and team based on your skills and preferences.
- Build - 24 hours to go from problem to prototype. With mentorship from the challenge partners.
- Pitch - Present your solution on the main stage. Judges pick the winners.
24 Hours. Two Days. One Goal.
The Schedule
From first coffee to final pitch: Here’s what your 24 hours look like. Day one is all about getting into the challenge and building. Day two is about finishing strong and presenting what you’ve shipped.
Thurs 9:00
09:30: Challenge presentations by all partners (5 min each)
10:15: Team assignments & challenge deep-dives
Thurs 11:00
Free Lunch, dinner, snacks & drinks throughout the day and night
FRI 10:00
Each team presents their project in 3 minutes— sharp, concise, straight to the point. The jury gives initial feedback and select the best project for the final pitch.
FRI 11:30
13:00: Winners announced, group photo, lunch & celebration
FAQ
What is the ChefTreff AI Hackathon?
A 24-hour hackathon where 300+ participants solve real AI challenges from leading companies – part of the Future Leader Summit 2026.
Do I need to be a developer to participate?
No! We need product thinkers, designers, strategists, and builders of all kinds. If you can ship, you belong here.
What are the challenges?
Each challenge is designed around a real problem our partners face. You’ll get the context, data, and mentorship to build something meaningful. Full challenge descriptions will be shared with accepted participants.
Is it free?
Yes, participation is completely free. Food, drinks, and sleeping spots are included.
Can I apply as a team?
Yes, you can apply with a team or solo. We’ll match solo applicants based on skills and preferences.
What happens after the hackathon?
Every participant gets a free ticket to the Future Leader Summit 2026 on April 10–11 at the CCH Hamburg.
Where can I sleep?
Limited sleeping spots are available at the venue (bring your own sleeping bag and mat). Dedicated areas for women are provided. Hostel options will be shared after acceptance.
How do I get there?
Factory Hammerbrooklyn, Stadtdeich 2-4, 20097 Hamburg. Easily accessible by public transport.
