The Startup Hack
Think like a founder. Not just a hacker.
This is not your usual hackathon.
Instead of solving generic problems, you'll spend 24 hours building real solutions for real startups: working directly with founders, understanding their vision, and tackling challenges that actually matter.
What makes this different?
You won't just be coding. You'll:
Work on real startup challenges (in teams of up to three)
Get direct access to founders as mentors
Learn how startups think, build, and prioritize
Create something that could go beyond the hackathon
This is your chance to experience what it's like to build inside a startup: fast-paced, ambitious, and focused on real impact.
Two ways to participate
🏢 Startup Challenges Pick a challenge from one of our challenge providers and build a real solution for their problem in 24 hours.
Challenge Providers:
CasvuAI
TaruTech
Trainer (Aalto Founder School)
🚀 Antler Track — Build Your Own
Got an idea that keeps you up at night? A problem you've been sketching hacking on weekends or validating? You don't need a company or a finished product, just the hunger to build something real.
Use the 24 hours to turn your idea into something tangible. Antler will be scouting for their next residency cohort, so this is your chance to get on their radar.
This track is for you if you have an idea you can't let go of, even if it's super early!
What's in it for you?
€1,000 prize pool (Startup Challenges)
Winners of the Antler Track get a free seat at Antler's Helsinki office (24/7 access until August)
Top founders pitch at the closing session with direct feedback from Antler
Fast-track interview for Antler's residency program
Startup mentoring & sparring throughout the event
Event Details April 18–19 📍 Antler Helsinki Office
Saturday 12:00 — Kick-off + challenge presentations
Lunch, dinner, and brunch provided
24 hours of building
Sunday 14:00 — Pitching & feedback
Sunday 15:00 — Closing