Hackathon for a Cause: Build Something That Matters

Hackathon for a Cause: Build Something That Matters realiza-se a 9 de novembro de 2026, PTW Palace, em Lisboa.

From 9 to 13 November, 351 Portuguese Startup Association and Brainstorm, the Portuguese ADHD Association, invite you to a hackathon with a purpose. Instead of building technology for technology’s sake, you’ll work on a real challenge from people who live with ADHD every day, and turn your skills into something that could make a difference. Supported by the Institute for Tomorrow. The cause Brainstorm supports people with ADHD and their families in Portugal. Their challenge will be revealed at the kickoff, and you’ll hear it straight from the people it matters to. Expect a challenge where smart technology and human-centred design have to work together. Skills that will come in handy Software development (frontend, backend or both) and comfort with APIs and third-party tools AI and automation know-how, or the curiosity to learn on the go UX and product design, especially for accessible, low-effort experiences Product thinking: turning a messy problem into a clear solution Storytelling and pitching, for a convincing Friday demo Empathy and lived experience: knowing ADHD first-hand, or through someone close, is a real advantage No need to tick every box. The best teams are mixed, and solo participants can be matched with teammates if they prefer. Why it’s worth your week Work on a problem with real human impact Talk directly with Brainstorm and learn from lived experience Practise building responsibly, with privacy, consent and user autonomy in mind Get guidance from mentors and feedback from a jury at the final pitches Meet people in Portugal’s tech and startup community who care about building with purpose Prizes to be announced Who can join Everyone, from anywhere in Portugal. Developers, designers, product people, students, career changers, and anyone who cares about the cause. Take part onsite in Lisbon or fully online. Come with a team or come solo. What you’ll build A working prototype or demo and a short pitch. No finished product needed. Show a realistic user journey, and be clear about what works today and what is still an idea. How the week works Mon 9 Nov, 10:00–12:00: Kickoff and challenge presentation at the Portugal Tech Week Palace, also open online Mon–Thu: Hybrid work, onsite or online, with mentors available to help Thu 12 Nov, 21:00: Submit your results for pre-review Fri 13 Nov, 17:30–20:00: Final pitches at the Palace, also open online Where Online from anywhere in Portugal Onsite at the Portugal Tech Week Palace. Both the kickoff and the final pitches can be followed online, so you won’t miss a moment wherever you are. Spots are limited. Register now and help build something that matters.