SMASH hackathon proved one again how wicked problems and challenge-driven innovation is an excellent way to activate innovators and build communities.

In April 2021, Crazy Town produced and facilitated an online hackathon for SMASH and Ladec / Lahti sports ecosystem. We invited international teams to solve how global sports could be more sustainable – from environmental and societal point of view.

12 teams from Finland, Japan, China and Philippines with very different backgrounds from students to startups answered the call and created solutions in 48 hours with our help. As the next step, the organizers connect the best-performing teams with international sports decision makers. One such upcoming event is Smash Tokyo in December 2021, where results will be displayed.

”Mentoring discussions with the teams was exciting, instructive and invigorating. I learned a lot!”

– one of the organizers

Crazy Town builds communities and ecosystems. Hackathons and innovation competitions are one way to kickstart community-building. Also the SMASH hackathon was also part of establishing presence for Lahti Sports Hub. However, for long-term impact it’s essential that there are organizations like SMASH and Ladec, who help teams implement ideas into action afterwards. Hackathons alone are just a catalyst.

Crazy Town will continue its community-building work in Lahti – stay tuned for more news. Meanwhile, you can check out one of the solutions created at SMASH hackathon – “Hiiliavain” tool by Positive Impact that allows sports event organizers to easily see how they can be more sustainable (developed in 48 hours!).

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HACKATHONS AND OUR INNOVATION SERVICES: Mikko Korpela, +358 400 499 242, mikko.korpela@crazytown.fi