National Hackathon Circular Economy
Solve real-world circular challenges with students across the Netherlands
In the National Hackathon Circular Economy students mbo, hbo & wo from all over the country and from different backgrounds work together on a practical issue related to the circular economy. Last year, over 420 students from 21 educational institutions took on the challenge!
The hackathon is organized by educational institutions across the country, with Het Groene Brein, Zuyd Hogeschool, The Hague University and Firda.
Why participate?
For students
- Learn more about circular economy and your rol in a circular world
- Work with mbo, hbo and wo students from all over the country, outside of your own educational institution and your own subject or studies
- Develop knowledge and skills about circular economy, from a real issue
- Build your network and deepen your resume
- Receive a certificate for your participation
For educators & educational institutions
- Experiment with multi-level collaborations and new forms of education
- Strengthen your network in your region and on a national level
- Learn from and with other educational institutions
- Access to informal community days to exchange with other education professionals / teachers
- Want to stay updated? Apply via this form, and we will keep you updated.
National Hackathon Circular Economy 2026: Making Events Zero Waste
Join students from all educational levels across the Netherlands to develop innovative solutions to make events zero-waste. Explore the challenge, learn from experts, and pitch your ideas to industry partners!
Past editions
In previous editions, for example, these were issues from H&M and New Optimist (2024) about circular fashion or an issue from NS about how to make stations waste-free (2023), and Bol and Het Goed about consumer goods (2025). A cool way to learn about the circular economy: working on a real issue while learning about the role you can have in the transition towards a circular economy.
Experience the Hackathon
Curious what it’s like to participate? Watch the aftermovie of NHCE 2025 for a glimpse into the excitement and creativity of our students. You can also explore all previous editions via the menu!
Ready to participate?
Whether you’re a student, teacher, or host, there are many ways to get involved in the National Hackathon Circular Economy. Find out how you can join and contribute to this year’s challenge!