Overview
The application for the “Big Data Awareness and Innovation Competition” aims to develop data-driven solutions for local problems, especially in areas where Big Data is not yet sufficiently known or utilized.
As part of the competition, participants are invited to develop ideas that use data to improve decision-making processes, increase efficiency, and provide sustainable solutions.
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Objective of the Competition
- Raise awareness of Big Data
- Foster data-driven innovation skills among young people
- Develop innovative solutions to local problems
Focus Areas
Participants can focus on one of the following areas:
- Recycling and circular economy
- Waste management and smart cities
- Agriculture and food systems
Additional areas: water management, energy efficiency, logistics, public health, disaster management
Who Can Apply?
- Young people
- Vocational education and training (VET) trainees
- Students
- Early-career professionals
Applications can be submitted individually or as a team.
Team applications are strongly encouraged; we place great importance on gender equality and inclusion. Teams with a balanced gender composition (at least one woman and one man) are recommended.
What Needs to Be Submitted?
Participants are expected to prepare a short idea paper (Idea Package) in PDF format.
Formatting Guidelines
Font: Helvetica
Font size: 12
Length: maximum 1500 words
Contents of the Idea Paper
- Problem Definition: What local problem are you solving and who is affected?
- Data Sources: Planned data types (e.g., sensor data, open data, satellite data, institutional data)
- Method and Approach: How the data will be used (analysis, predictive models, dashboards, optimization, artificial intelligence, etc.)
- Expected Impact: Measurable results (cost reduction, CO₂ reduction, increased efficiency, waste reduction, improved service quality)
- Ethics and Data Protection: How data will be used securely and responsibly and how transparency will be ensured
- Feasibility: Local pilot plan, stakeholders, steps, timeline, estimated budget
- Optional Attachments: Mockups, demo, presentation, short video (max. 2 minutes)
Evaluation Criteria
- Clarity and relevance of the problem
- Meaningful and appropriate use of data
- Level of innovation and scalability
- Expected environmental, social, and economic impact
- Feasibility
- Ethics and data security
Prizes
- 1st Place: €300
- 2nd Place: €200
- 3rd Place: €100
Timeline
- Announcement: March 17, 2026
- Application deadline: April 30, 2026
- Winners announced: Friday, May 15, 2026
