an intensive AI/ML hackathon uniting regional talent to co-create scalable solutions for agrifood, health, education, logistics, and social cohesion
Description
The AI/ML Hackathon, co-organized by Microsoft, SocialTech Lab, and FINOMENA, was a three-day innovation programme bringing together developers, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers from across Cyprus and the region.
Participants worked intensively to develop AI- and Machine Learning–powered solutions addressing real challenges sourced from local enterprises and social-impact organizations.
Focusing on sectors such as Agrifood & Environment, HealthTech, Shipping & Logistics, Education, and Social Cohesion, the hackathon equipped participants with hands-on technical training, expert mentorship, and direct access to Azure AI/ML tools. The event created a fast-paced environment where teams transformed real-world problems into functional prototypes with potential for scale and impact.
Structure of the Programme
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Three-day innovation sprint, guiding participants from challenge exploration to AI/ML prototype development
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Real challenge sourcing from Cypriot enterprises and social-impact organizations
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Capacity-building workshops on Azure AI/ML, OpenAI integration, cognitive search, and technical development
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Expert mentorship from Microsoft specialists, industry professionals, and startup practitioners
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Hands-on hacking sessions using AI/ML modelling, data processing, predictive analytics, and automation
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Final Pitch Day, where all teams presented their prototypes to a panel of judges and ecosystem experts
Programme Impact
Brought together top talent
from Cyprus and the region to co-create AI/ML solutions for real industry challenges
Supported 5 multidisciplinary teams
in developing functional prototypes in just three days with clear action plans for real impact
Strengthened capabilities
in Azure AI, OpenAI tools, ML, data processing, and predictive modelling
Activated collaboration
between innovators and challenge-providers including MightyKitchen, IREROBOT, Heroes Made, Oceanic, and SocialTech Lab
Celebrated the overall winning team
supporting IREROBOT with an AI/ML sound-recognition solution for people with hearing impairment
Strengthened the local ecosystem
by fostering regional collaboration, industry engagement, and real-world problem solving
Ready to create impact together?
We’re always looking to partner with organisations and changemakers who share our vision for a more inclusive and innovative future. Book a call with us to explore how we can collaborate and grow impact side by side.