U.S. embassies in Estonia, Latvia, Denmark and Lithuania partnered to virtually co-host the 48 for the Future “hackathon,” implemented by private partners Garage48 and Startup Wise Guys on December 3-6.
The hackathon let participants design a mobile phone app or other tech solution to address the complexities of the post-COVID-19 economic recovery.
More than 600 people from 70 countries and 27 states in the United States spent three days coding and collaborating to develop their ideas.
“In 2020, the coronavirus that conquered the world left a strong mark on the economy, changing many areas forever,” said Mari Hanikat, the chief executive of Garage48. “In order to adapt to the new reality and emerge stronger, we must look to the future for sustainable solutions that will strengthen our economy for the long run.”
U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment Keith J. Krach highlighted how “innovation is a cornerstone of free economies worldwide. It’s how we’ll get through this pandemic and come out stronger on the other side.”
Congratulations to all 37 teams in the #48fortheFuture hackathon finals! You are the talented innovators who will help build a stronger post-COVID economy.
Thanks to @garage48 for their leadership along the way, to the mentors, and to our partners. You all are inspirations! https://t.co/ZuvTCQIsRr
— USEmbassyTallinn (@USEmbTallinn) December 7, 2020
Some who entered the competition were beginners, while others were advanced coders and innovators with substantial experience, the organizers said. Thirty-seven teams of varying levels competed in the final round for the top place, gaining experience and winning prizes such as spots in a Startup Wise Guys program and tickets to innovation events in Estonia.