From 20 to 22 November 2026, the University of Perpignan Via Domitia (UPVD), in collaboration with the University of Girona (UdG), will host the Across Hackathon 2026. Bringing together students, researchers, entrepreneurs, public authorities and civil society, the event will focus on developing innovative solutions to one of the region’s most pressing challenges: water.
A cross-border challenge for a sustainable future
Organised within the framework of the Across European University Alliance, the Hackathon is part of the activities of Work Package 3 and the Across Border Engagement Centre (ABEC West), which strengthens cooperation between universities and regional stakeholders in the Perpignan–Girona cross-border area. The Mediterranean region is increasingly affected by prolonged droughts and growing pressure on freshwater resources. Building on these shared territorial challenges, the 2026 edition will invite participants to design innovative, sustainable and practical solutions covering the entire water cycle—from freshwater management and agriculture to marine ecosystems and coastal resilience.
53 hours of innovation
The Hackathon will take place over 53 consecutive hours, from Friday 20 November to Sunday 22 November 2026, at UPVD IN CUBE in Perpignan. Participants will work in multidisciplinary teams combining students, researchers, entrepreneurs, public authorities, civil society organisations and innovation professionals.
Throughout the event, teams will benefit from:
- expert coaching;
- thematic workshops;
- mentoring sessions;
- collaborative working spaces;
- networking opportunities with innovation stakeholders.
The Hackathon will conclude with project pitches before an international jury, followed by the awards ceremony.
Six challenges inspired by Across Summer Schools
Participants will tackle six innovation challenges developed during the Across Summer Schools organised by UPVD and the University of Girona. These challenges address key issues related to water management, climate adaptation, environmental protection and sustainable territorial development. Teams will be encouraged to develop solutions that combine technological innovation, environmental sustainability and social impact while proposing viable business models capable of generating long-term value.
Strengthening the European innovation ecosystem
Beyond the competition itself, the Across Hackathon aims to strengthen collaboration between higher education institutions, research organisations, businesses, start-ups, public authorities and citizens. By bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives, the event embodies the Alliance’s commitment to addressing societal challenges through interdisciplinary cooperation and entrepreneurship. The winning team will receive a six-month pre-incubation programme at UPVD IN CUBE, alongside additional prizes offered by Across partners and sponsors.
Funded through European and national cooperation
The Hackathon is organised by UPVD IN CUBE in partnership with the University of Girona within the Across European University Alliance. The initiative is supported by the Erasmus+ European Universities Initiative and France 2030, reflecting the shared European ambition to foster innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable regional development.
