Junction 2026 hackathon in Espoo with a hardware lab

Junction 2026 is a 48 hour hackathon at Hype Areena in Espoo, Finland, from 13 to 15 November 2026. The organisers expect about 2,000 builders from more than 100 countries. The prize pool is €100,000, and the full prize breakdown has not been published yet.

Entry is free for accepted participants. Anyone who builds can apply, from any background or experience level. You can apply alone or with a team of up to 4 people. Applications close at midnight on 25 October 2026, Finnish time (GMT+3).

New this year is a Hardware Lab by Arduino for physical AI, robotics and embedded projects. It offers Arduino UNO Q boards, parts, 3D printers and LeRobot robot arms. Other themes include AI agents and software for web, mobile and data.

Challenge tracks are set with partner companies and will be announced closer to the event. Each partner picks its own track winners. The overall winner is chosen through a peer review that selects the top 5 projects, followed by live pitches to a jury.

A week of pre events starts on 9 November. Doors open on Friday 13 November at 16:00, and final submissions are due on Sunday 15 November at 10:00. The travel grant deadline for international participants has already passed.

Quick answers

Is there hardware to build with on site?

Yes. The new Hardware Lab by Arduino has Arduino UNO Q boards, components, 3D printers and LeRobot arms, with mentors from hardware companies.

Can international participants get an invitation letter?

Yes. After acceptance, Junction asks for your details and sends invitation letters in batches on 11 October, 25 October and 1 November 2026.