Ideation Hackathon
AI Hackathon: From Idea to Pitch
21 to 22 November 2026 · Bayes Business School, Finsbury Square
What if the best startup idea isn't one you have to invent?
Most great businesses aren't built from nothing. They borrow something that already works and point it somewhere new. Airbnb unlocked underused assets. Too Good To Go turned surplus into inventory. Duolingo made habits addictive.
Over one weekend, you'll do the same. Use AI to find a proven mechanism, steal it, and apply it to a problem in a completely different industry. Then build a real first version, not just a deck, and pitch it to a panel of judges.
The one rule: if you borrow Airbnb's model, you can't build another accommodation marketplace. That's where it gets interesting.
Got an idea? Bring it.
No idea? Come anyway. The process gets you there.
What you'll get
💰 A shot at cash. Three City Ventures awards and cash prizes are up for grabs.
🤖 Proper AI tools. Build with Lovable and Featherless and find out how far an idea can go in 48 hours.
💬 Mentors on tap. Experienced entrepreneurs will pressure-test your thinking and your build.
👥 A team you didn't expect. Small, mixed teams, so you'll be working with people you might not otherwise meet. Some people find a co-founder this way.
🍕 Food. We'll keep you fuelled while you build.
Who's it for?
Anyone curious enough to give it a go. You don't need to be technical, have a business plan, or have a startup idea. You just need energy and a willingness to build.
The weekend
📍 Bayes Business School, Finsbury Square. The whole 7th floor is yours.
Saturday 21 November, 9:30am until late
Welcome and team formation, then pick your mechanism, find your problem, and start building with mentors on hand.
Sunday 22 November, 9:30am to 2pm
Final build, pitches, then lunch while the winners are announced.
Spaces are limited.