MiniChallenge x Connection
Join the MiniChallenge x Connection on 12–13 May! Register by 8.5.
What is it?
The MiniChallenge is a two-day, hands-on social hackathon where students work in teams to create practical solutions to real challenges in everyday life.
On 12–13 May, Helsinki Think Company and Sitra are organising MiniChallenge x Connection, focused on one big question:
How can we make life in Finland feel less like “everyone for themselves” and more like “we’re in this together”?
You do not need technical skills or theoretical expertise on the topic — just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to work with others.
What will you do?
You will be assigned to a team and choose one of two challenge tracks:
🎓 Track 1: Learning and wellbeing
How might we reduce the pressure caused by constant choices and identity expectations, strengthen belonging, and make learning feel safe and supportive for students and young adults?
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Track 2: Families and generations
How might family life and caregiving feel less lonely, less demanding, and more supported by the community?
During the challenge, you’ll choose a real-life target group, explore their everyday life and challenges, and design a practical solution or service to support their needs. Your solution does not need to rely on technology or public funding — it can be based on rituals, routines, peer support, and community practices.
Why join?
Build meaningful solutions for real problems and real people
Team up with students from different fields and backgrounds
Learn practical tools for problem-solving and teamwork
Work with mentors from Finnish organisations
Present your solution to a jury at the end of the event and receive feedback. Best solution will be rewarded!
The event is all about creativity, teamwork, and human insight — technical skills are not required.
Who can apply?
All students are welcome — Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students from all backgrounds. You can apply on your own or with a friend, and we will form teams from individual applicants. Register by 8.5., we will inform all accepted participants by 9.5.
When and where?
MiniChallenge
12–13 May 2026, 9:00–17:00 on both days
Think Nook
Related panel discussion
7 May 2026, 13:00–15:00
Think Stage
Location
Think Corner, Yliopistonkatu 4, 00100 Helsinki
Before the MiniChallenge, we warmly encourage participants to attend the related panel discussion, Rethinking Individualism – How Choice, Identity, and Community Shape Our Future, on 7 May from 13:00 to 15:00. The panel offers expert perspectives on the same themes and serves as a valuable introduction to the challenge topic. Register for the panel discussion here: https://luma.com/rvkp1ab6