CISPA Helmholtz Center for Information Security, a leading European research center for cybersecurity and AI, has introduced the European Cybersecurity & AI Hackathon Championship. This initiative aims to bolster Europe's standing as a global center for digital innovation by investing in the next generation of researchers. The program seeks to promote skills in cybersecurity, cultivate interest in artificial intelligence, and increase awareness about the importance of trustworthy technologies. Through a series of regional competitions across Europe, the championship convenes young talent to develop the capabilities required to meet significant challenges in these fields, fostering collaboration and helping to build a skilled future workforce for a secure digital landscape.
Program Structure and Format
The championship begins with six regional rounds held in major European cities. Each event is a 24-hour weekend hackathon designed for up to 200 participants, including Bachelor's, Master's, and doctoral students.
• Participants form teams of three or four to compete.
• Teams are tasked with solving three challenges at the intersection of cybersecurity and AI.
• Following the 24-hour period, top-ranked teams present their solutions to a jury of experts.
• The winning teams from each regional event secure a place in the Grand Finale in St. Ingbert, Germany, with all travel and accommodation expenses covered.
Eligibility and Registration
The program is open to Bachelor's, Master's students, and doctoral candidates who are passionate about AI and cybersecurity.
• Participants must be at least 18 years old and currently study and reside in Europe.
• Applicants must form teams of up to four members before registering.
• Each team member is required to register individually using their designated team name.
• Registration is a two-stage process; after completing the initial form, a second form requesting more detailed information will be sent.
• Participants will be notified of successful registration at least two weeks prior to the event.
• The registration deadline for the Munich event is March 12, 2026.
Prizes and Awards
Prizes for the regional rounds are as follows:
• 1st Place: A certificate for each team member and entry into the Grand Finale, including travel and accommodation.
• 2nd Place: A certificate for each team member and entry into the Grand Finale, including travel and accommodation.
• 3rd Place: A certificate for each team member and entry into the Grand Finale, including travel and accommodation.
• Runner-up: A certificate for each team member.
Prizes for the Grand Finale are as follows:
• 1st Place: A cash prize of €4000 per team, a certificate for each member, and trophies.
• 2nd Place: A cash prize of €2000 per team and a certificate for each member.
• 3rd Place: A cash prize of €1200 per team and a certificate for each member.
• Runner-up Prizes: A cash prize of €400 per team and a certificate for each member.
Event Schedule and Venues
• Paris, France (November 22-23, 2025): Paris & Co, La Grande Arche, 1 Parv. de la Défense, 92800 Puteaux.
• Vienna, Austria (December 13-14, 2025): Universität Wien, Universitätsring 1, 1010 Wien.
• Stockholm, Sweden (February 14-15, 2026): Q-huset, KTH Campus, Malvinas väg 4-6b, 114 28 Stockholm.
• Munich, Germany (March 21-22, 2026): Mathematics & Informatics Building, Boltzmannstr. 3, 85748 Garching b. München.
• Barcelona, Spain (April 11-12, 2026): TecnoCampus, Park TecnoCampus Mataró-Maresme, Carrer de Ernest Lluch, 32, 08302 Mataró, Barcelona.
• Warsaw, Poland (May 9-10, 2026): Warsaw University of Technology, Plac Politechniki 1, 00-661 Warszawa.
Participant Information
• Participation Cost: Participation is free of charge, though the number of places is limited.
• Selection Criteria: Selection is based on academic suitability, eligible age, and eligible location of study and residence.
• On-site Registration: A valid photo identification is required for on-site registration.
• Cost Reimbursement: Travel and accommodation costs for regional events are not reimbursed. Special rules for the Grand Finale will be communicated to qualified participants.
• Required Equipment: Participants must bring their own laptops and chargers. Three meals will be provided, but bringing personal drinks and snacks is recommended.
The CISPA European Cybersecurity & AI Hackathon Championship offers a platform for students and researchers to address hands-on challenges at the forefront of AI and cybersecurity. The series of regional hackathons, culminating in a Grand Finale, serves as a launchpad for careers in research and an effort to build a pan-European community of scientists proficient in both fields. The initiative is designed to empower young scientists to tackle a defining technological challenge, fostering a community that prioritizes collaboration, innovation, and digital resilience to help shape a secure digital Europe.