What’s a Hackathon?

A Hackathon is a gathering of industry experts or enthusiasts, who band together over a short period of time to intensively explore a single, simple idea. A hackathon typically happens in a single day or a weekend. The object is to produce a finished product or a proof of concept, which can be the basis for a new business or a new service.

Why is KB hosting a Hackathon?

Because a Hackathon is a great way to get fresh perspectives, both from members of the KB team, and from outsiders with a diverse set of experiences. It’s a free-form opportunity to be creative, that gives us an opportunity to challenge our assumptions and our biases, and reduce tunnel vision.

KB also wants to give non-employees the opportunity to help change the way banking is done. Our best work is in cooperation with others- not all by ourselves. The hackathon gives KB a chance to support and meet talented and smart people, and give them a chance to shine.

Who are we looking for?

The Hackathon welcomes anyone who has an interest in the “Bank of the Future.” Participants can play different roles, such as:  
 
Developers/Engineers who want to show their skills, write software and master  emerging technologies.

Futurists who can envision and help sell new ways of working and new use cases for technologies that have been previously ignored or unrealized.

Data Scientists who know how to  find new ways to use data and uncover data knowledge.

Entrepreneurs who are looking for the next big thing in banking, and will be quick to recognize a new business opportunity.

What’s the Goal of the Hackathon?

To envision the “Bank of the Future,” and together with members of the KB team, to create and even begin to test new products and concepts that may one day soon become the new ways that banks will interact with, serve, and support customers around the world.

Do I need experience in Banking?

You don’t need to have a background in banking. In fact, we encourage those with no experience in banking to apply as well.

Do I need to speak Czech/English?

The official language of the Hackathon is English, meaning that the final presentations of each idea will be in English. Some mentors and organizers will also speak only English. However, you do not have to be a master of the language to be on a team. Some basic familiarity is all that is required. Czech knowledge is not strictly required.

Is there a participation fee? 

Yes. There is a symbolic fee of 100 CZK, to ensure that those who sign up are serious about attending. The value of food, drinks, and other perks at the event are worth far more, and the event is not for profit.

Do I need to have a team to join?

No! You can enter with your friends as a team, or you can come alone, and join a new or existing team. If you don’t know anyone, the organizers will help you find a team that needs your talents most. You will have the opportunity to share your own ideas, or to join a group you find interesting.

What Data will be available?

A cache of data will be available from KB, including anonymized user data such as transactional patterns, location patterns, and other interesting data. In addition, StartupYard will provide a cache of “open data” provided by the city of Prague, which can be used in combination with internal bank data to come up with brand new insights and ideas.

What can I win?

A jury made of members of KB and StartupYard will award the 3 best projects.

Financial awards:

• 10 000 CZK each for the 1st team
• 6 000 CZK each for the 2nd team
• 4 000 CZK each for the 3rd team

+ Prestige prizes:

• Possibility to be accepted to the SY accelerator (30000 EUR support)
• Presentation of the winning team to SG Group Innovation Director visit the next day and participate at the next day dinner
• MůjÚčet GOLD Account free for 1 year (with Gold Card)
• Lunch with CEO or IT managers