Develop Ideas for the Future of the Kras–Carso Cross-Border Geopark
Are you interested in entrepreneurship, sustainable development, tourism, or creating innovative solutions for local communities?
Join the GEOPARK KRAS–CARSO Cross-Border Hackathon and help shape the future of the Kras–Carso Geopark!
As part of this four-day innovation marathon, young people, job seekers, entrepreneurs, and representatives of non-governmental organizations from Slovenia and Italy will come together to combine their knowledge, experience, and ideas in search of innovative solutions for the development of one of Europe's most important cross-border regions.
26–30 October 2026
Venue: Inkubator Sežana
Working in interdisciplinary teams, participants will develop solutions in the following areas:
- Strengthening cross-border cooperation between people, knowledge, and service providers.
- Engaging young people in the development of the geopark.
- Developing innovative products and services based on local resources.
- Promoting the inclusion of vulnerable groups in geopark activities.
Throughout the hackathon, teams will be supported by mentors from Slovenia and Italy, who will provide guidance in developing ideas, business models, and presentation strategies. The best teams will present their solutions to an expert jury and compete for a total prize fund of EUR 5,000.
Who is the hackathon for?
- Young people aged 18–29.
- Unemployed individuals.
- Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
- Anyone with innovative ideas and a willingness to collaborate.
- Participants must be from the programme's eligible area.
Why Participate?
- Develop your idea with the support of experienced mentors.
- Connect with entrepreneurs and experts from Slovenia and Italy.
- Gain valuable knowledge in entrepreneurship and innovation.
- Contribute to the sustainable development of the Karst region.
- Compete for a share of the EUR 5,000 (gross) prize fund.
What to Expect?
- Discover new talents.
- Solve real-world challenges.
- Build your network and establish new professional connections.
- Receive comprehensive support in developing your ideas.
Register your team of up to five members, or apply as an individual and become part of a cross-border community of innovators shaping the future of the Kras–Carso region.
Application deadline: 12 October 2026
Register here:
Hekaton Geopark KRAS–CARSO /Hackathon Geoparco KRAS-CARSO
PROGRAM:
- 26 October 2026 – Warm-up Day
- 27–29 October 2026 – Idea Development
- 30 October 2026 – Final Event and Awards Ceremony
Participants will be able to take part partly online, while attendance on-site will be mandatory for selected programme activities.
Prizes:
Most Innovative Entrepreneurial Ideas
1st Prize: EUR 2,500
2nd Prize: EUR 1,500
3rd Prize: EUR 1,000
