Image from last year's PCH Hardware Hackathon via Adam Dillon
Taking place in Dublin City University (DCU) between 22 and 24 May, the PCH Hardware Hackathon will be encouraging start-ups to get their hands dirty and make a prototype of a connected device in just three days.
This will be the third hackathon to be hosted by supply chain providers PCH in Dublin in partnership with the DCU Innovation Campus, following the success of last year’s event.
This year, however, new elements have been added to this PCH Hardware Hackathon agenda, including five-minute pitch-off sessions for established start-ups and non-hackathon participants to pitch for a prize of €1,000 funding, and two panel discussions including some of the biggest names in technology worldwide
Also for the first time, the public can come and attend demos and talks on the nights of Friday, 22 May and Sunday, 24 May.
In the space of 54 hours, participating teams will go from idea to prototype with help from mentors, including one-on-one mentorship, optional workshops, speakers and pitch practice, and all participants will have access to resources including developer kits, prototyping tools, 3D printers, CNC machines, soldering irons, and a laser cutter.
The team that comes out on top of the hackathon will find themselves picking up a cheque for €3,000, while the team with the best pitch will win €1,000 to encourage their idea further.
PCH founder and CEO Liam Casey said: “Ireland’s hardware start-up scene is really gaining ground and we want to harness some of that energy in this, our third Hackathon in association with DCU. DCU is a great partner. We’ve held two excellent events to date, which have resulted in the development of some amazing ideas and prototypes. Hackathons are today’s garages where companies get their start.”
