Hackathon Overview
The Innovative Environmental Solutions Hackathon was organised as part of the EU-funded C4C program in Irbid, specifically under the project “Cleaner Energy-Saving Multi-Use Public Building.” This project is co-financed by the Greater Irbid Municipality with technical assistance from the Clima-Med project.
Hosted at Yarmouk University, the event was held over three days and brought together diverse participants from Irbid City to collaborate on innovative solutions for environmental challenges. In collaboration with the Hijjawi Faculty of Engineering Technology, Yarmouk University’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre planned the Hackathon, combining academic expertise with strong local involvement. A dedicated team of experts guided the event, drawing on their experience in entrepreneurship, innovation, and engineering. A supervision and arbitration committee maintained the event’s integrity and evaluated and judged the submitted projects.
Event Highlights
Designed to foster innovation and problem-solving, the event focused on critical issues such as climate change, waste management, and environmental conservation, the Hackathon unfolded as follows:
Day 1: Workshops focused on “Business Models” and the intersection of AI and startups, equipping participants with valuable insights into structuring their ideas and utilizing technology.- Day 2: The second day concentrated on refining business plans and improving presentation skills. The day culminated in a pitching session where participants presented their projects to a panel and received constructive feedback.
- Day 3: The final day concluded with the announcement of the winning projects, celebrating the creativity, innovation, and potential of the participants.
Participating Projects
A total of 36 project proposals were submitted, showcasing a diverse array of innovative ideas. After a thorough review, 26 projects were selected to compete in the Hackathon. These projects, which ranged from AI-powered environmental monitoring to waste reduction solutions, addressed pressing environmental issues facing Irbid City and beyond.
Maximizing Participation and Visibility
To ensure maximum participation and visibility, event announcements were shared through various channels. Emails were sent to all Yarmouk University students, and the event was prominently featured on the University’s official website and social media platforms. The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre’s role was pivotal in promoting the Hackathon and engaging the broader community.
Impact and Conclusion
The three-day Hackathon provided a vibrant platform for students, professionals, and community members to collaborate, innovate, and learn. It fostered creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship, equipping participants with the tools to further develop their ideas and solutions with real-world impact. Beyond promoting sustainability, the event empowered the local community of Irbid to take an active role in addressing environmental challenges. By engaging students, professionals, and residents, the Hackathon demonstrated the power of collective innovation in shaping a more sustainable future for the region.