One of the most popular concepts in the world of technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship in recent years, hackathon, is a combination of the words “hack” (to solve creatively) and “marathon” (a long-lasting event). A hackathon is an intensive work event where participants come together within a limited time frame (usually 24-48 hours) to develop innovative projects on a specific problem or theme.

The Purpose of a Hackathon

Hackathons are not just a “coding marathon” for software developers. The main goal is for young people or professionals from different fields (design, business development, marketing, engineering, etc.) to come together to generate creative ideas, develop prototypes, and come up with innovative solutions in a short period of time.

In this regard, hackathons:

• Encourage creativity
• Strengthen teamwork
• Develop problem-solving skills
• Provide an opportunity to get acquainted with the entrepreneurial ecosystem

 

How Does the Hackathon Process Work?

A hackathon usually consists of the following steps:

1. Registration and Team Building: Participants apply individually or as a team. Teams usually consist of 2-5 people.
2. Determining the Theme and Problem: Event organizers explain the topic or problem to be worked on.
3. Intensive Work Phase: Participants develop their ideas, write code, design, or create a business plan within a specific time frame.
4. Mentoring and Workshops: In most hackathons, expert mentors provide guidance to help teams develop their projects.
5. Presentation and Jury Evaluation: At the end of the event, teams present their projects to the jury, and the best ideas are awarded prizes.

 

Hackathons and High School Entrepreneurs

Hackathons for high school students offer unique opportunities to:

• Gain entrepreneurial experience at an early age,
• Become familiar with new technologies,
• Develop innovative thinking skills,
• Connect with universities and the business world

The number of hackathons in Türkiye that high school students can participate in is increasing every year. Hackathons focused on artificial intelligence, sustainability, financial technologies, and social entrepreneurship, in particular, allow high school students to showcase their talents.

 

Tips for Hackathon Participants

Before participating in a hackathon:

• Refresh your basic technical and analytical skills
• Plan your team’s task distribution well
• Pay attention to time management
• Develop your presentation and storytelling skills
• Communicate effectively with mentors

These steps will elevate both the quality of your project and your experience during the hackathon.

Hackathons are “creative laboratories” where young entrepreneurs and technology enthusiasts can turn their dreams into reality. For High School Entrepreneurs, these events are not just a project development process; they are also an experiential arena where team spirit, rapid problem-solving, and innovative thinking skills are developed.