Beyond Banking Hackathon: the first-ever hackathon at SugarFactory
It was important to inspire the audience of the event to look differently at banking – beyond banking. SugarCity was the perfect fit thanks to its atmosphere and appearance. We also chose SugarCity because of the location and accessibility – with a train station in front – and the fact that access control and security are easy to realize. PTB Events
The first edition of the Beyond Banking Hackathon started on 9 June. The day started with various presentations from trend watchers and experts. For the 600 visitors, the presentation section was prepared in the Middenfabriek with a customized presentation screen. After lunch the sub sessions started where the 225 participants got more input on the assignment for the coming days. During the plenary session at the end of the afternoon, the hackathon was officially opened.
The hackathon took place in the Pulperloods, which was equipped with workplaces for the 42 participating teams. The teams now had 48 hours to develop the best digital banking product.
Where the Binnenstraat functioned as entrance on Friday, it had been converted into a canteen for the participants in the evening. Here participants could withdraw during the weekend and enjoy a game of table tennis or air hockey. The sub-area in the Bietenwasruimte was also used for workshops like a dance work-out. After a long day, participants had the opportunity to rest on the suikerdek.
Sunday was the last day for the developers to finish their product and it became increasingly quiet in the Binnenstraat. All teams were busy preparing the pitch for their product. In the afternoon they presented their idea for each other; a group of invited guests and a professional jury. Through an online voting system, the rest of the guests were also able to make their preferences known to the jury.
At the end of the official part, the jury announced the team which developed the best digital banking product this weekend. The announcement was spectacular with serpentines and fireworks. In the last hour participants had the opportunity to congratulate the winner during a final drink. With this, the successful hackathon weekend and this first-ever hackathon at SugarFactory, had come to an end.
