About the National Hackathon Circular Economy

National Hackathon Circular Economy Monday 3 - Friday 7 February 
In the National Hackathon Circular Economy students mbo, hbo & wo from all over the country and from different backgrounds work together on a practical issue related to the circular economy.

In previous editions, for example, these were issues from H&M and New Optimist about circular fashion or an issue from NS about how to make stations waste-free. A cool way to learn about the circular economy: working on a real issue while learning about the role you can have in the transition towards a circular economy.

The hackathon is organized by educational institutions across the country together with Het Groene Brein and is funded by the Ministry of IenW and DuurzaamDoor. 

Why join?

For students

  • Learn more about circular economy, and what you can do for a circular world
  • Work with MBO, HBO and WO students from all over the country, outside of your own educational institution and your own subject or studies
  • Develop knowledge and skills about circular economy, from a real issue
  • Build your network and deepen your resume
  • Receive a certificate for your participation

For educators & educational institutions

  • Experiment with multi-level collaborations and new forms of education
  • Strengthen your network in your region and on a national level
  • Learn from and with other educational institutions
  • Access to informal community days to exchange with other education professionals / teachers 

NHCE2025 challenge: making circular consumer
goods more attractive to young people

This years' case comes from bol.com and Het Goed. The challenge focusses on making consumer goods more attractive to young people. 

What to expect?

Take a look at the after movie of last year's NHCE underneath. Or read all about the previous editions via the menu!

How to join

For students

Sign up individually via this form. We will classify you with other students. (Registration is available till Jan. 17th)

Is your educational institution involved in the LCT program? Then you can sign up through your instructor. Ask, or send us an email (dianne.defijter@hetgroenebrein.nl). We're happy to connect you with the right person.

For educators & educational institutions

Get involved! Become one of the hosts of the NHCE 2025 from your educational institution! Anyone can participate in a way that suits you. Sign up for example with (a group of students from) a minor, course, living lab, graduate students or another group of students.

Would you like to participate with your educational institution? Please contact Dianne de Fijter, programme manager LCT via dianne.defijter@hetgroenebrein.nl.

What does a Hackathon-week look like?

Monday 3 Feb

  • Kick-off (online)
  • Getting to know your companions
  • Brainstorming

Tuesday 4 Feb

  • Workshops
  • Working in your group
  • Ask your question to an expert

Wednesday 5 Feb

  • Workshops
  • Working in your group

Thursday 6 Feb

  • Practicing your pitch
  • Regional finales

Friday 7 Feb

  • Grande finale @ location