CASSINI Hackathons - Space for Healthcare

Meet the local organisers

The CASSINI Hackathon: Space for Healthcare is set for 16 - 18 May 2025! In this edition, we are focusing on utilising EU space technologies to tackle key challenges in healthcare. This pan-European hackathon is challenging Europe's entrepreneurs, researchers, students, and young professionals to apply space-based solutions in areas critical to Europe’s healthcare landscape. A diverse group of local organisers has been selected from across Europe to host this exciting new hackathon!

1. Austria: Austrian Space Forum

The Austrian Space Forum (OeWF) is a private space research institution focused on planetary research and STEAM education. As ESA's first Ground-Based Facility in Austria, OeWF operates a vertical treadmill for gravity research while connecting experts across disciplines. With an extensive network in the European space community and specialized expertise in Mars mission simulations, the OeWF helps Cassini Hackathon participants develop practical solutions with real-world applications.

2. Denmark: Aarhus University

Aarhus University is home to DISCO, the Danish Student CubeSat programme. DISCO connects academics and entrepreneurs with business mentors and investors, fostering start-ups which go on to the ESA BIC.  Drawing on a network of experts in healthcare and space tech, the organisers will offer exciting connections and exposure to the participants of this CASSINI Hackathon. 

3. Finland: Ultrahack

Ultrahack is on a mission to help companies innovate and build new digital solutions. The Ultrahack community connects academic institutions with private sector leaders and entrepreneurs. The Ultrahack team has already organised two CASSINI Hackathons and will offer pitch training, mentor meetings, and social sessions as part of their comprehensive programme

4. France: International Space University

The International Space University (ISU) has a global reputation and collaborates with leading space organisations around the world. ISU’s 5,600+ graduates have become astronauts, entrepreneurs, and space industry leaders in 110 countries.  

As part of the Hackathon weekend, ISU will host interactive sessions where participants can engage with entrepreneurs from the healthcare sector to make connections and spark creativity.

5. Germany: Vision Health Pioneers Incubator

The Vision Health Pioneers Incubator was established by Startup Colors in 2019. With a focus on digital healthcare solutions, it has already supported 100 founders in +40 patient-facing startups. 

The Incubator has a strong ecosystem of mentors and experts ready to support participants at this Hackathon. 

6. Greece: Envolve Entrepreneurship

Envolve, a leading name in the Greek start-up ecosystem. By providing funding, mentorship and business support, Envolve has helped local start-ups to attract over €330 million in investment. 

This Hackathon will be integrated with the Zagori Impact Investing Summit, offering exciting opportunities for participants to meet potential investors. Envolve will provide post-event support to help promising teams develop connections and secure funding.

7. Italy: Teseas

TESEAS develops technology solutions that drive efficiency and innovation, specialising in biotech, environmental science and AI. TESEAS will host this Hackathon at the University of Bologna – which is where Giovanni Cassini was the Principal Chair of Astronomy, building a legacy that continues today.  

By fostering collaboration among startups, SMEs, and experts in space technologies and healthcare, TESEAS will create a dynamic environment to inspire groundbreaking ideas at this Hackathon.

8. Lithuania: UAB Baltic Sandbox

Established in 2018, Baltic Sandbox has already supported more than 300 start-ups, while its sister company BSV Ventures has funded 30, with a special interest in space tech. 

Baltic Sandbox has a vision to transform Lithuania into an innovation hub, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs! 

9. North Macedonia: Netaville

G+D Netcetera is a pioneering software company which creates solutions for sectors including finance and healthcare. Its IT hub, Netaville, connects more than 100 companies by providing training, co-working and collaborative opportunities. The team will partner with local and international experts to provide valuable mentoring to all participants in this Hackathon. 

10. Romania: idEA - the Institute of Excellence in Entrepreneurship

The Institute of Excellence in Entrepreneurship (IdEA) supports the startup ecosystem in Romania. It has organised more than 15 business accelerator programmes with 1,000 alumni who have secured investments worth more than €50 million.