European Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025: Become a Mentor!

Date: 17–19 October 2025
Location: Orczy Campus, University of Public Service (NKE), Budapest, Hungary
Organised by: Ludovika University of Public Service (NKE) with the support of IVSZ, as part of the EU-funded CyberHubs project
The European Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025 is more than a competition — it is a catalyst for innovation, talent development, and collaboration across Europe’s digital ecosystem.
As a mentor, you will work directly with the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and play a crucial role in transforming bold ideas into actionable solutions. Mentors are at the heart of this event: guiding teams, providing strategic and technical input, and helping turn early-stage concepts into working prototypes that tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges.
Who are we looking for?
We welcome experienced professionals with a background in cybersecurity or a related discipline, who are passionate about mentoring and sharing their knowledge.
Essential criteria:
Professional background:
- 3–5+ years in cybersecurity, IT, or related technical domains
- Demonstrable experience in one or more of the following:
- IoT Security, AI in cybersecurity
- Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Network Security; Data Protection & Privacy
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering, or related fields
- Soft skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills; Ability to explain complex topics in an accessible way; Experience with coaching, teaching, or mentoring would be appreciated
- Language: Proficiency in English is required
Your role during the Hackathon
Before the Event:
- Join a short onboarding session to learn about the format and challenge themes
- Familiarise yourself with the mentoring platform and the team
During the Event (17–19 October):
- Provide on-site or online guidance to teams (technical and strategic)
- Support teams in ideation, design thinking, prototyping, and final presentation
- Encourage inclusive collaboration and constructive problem-solving
- Help teams stay focused and realistic in their solutions
After the Event (optional):
- Share feedback with teams and organisers
- Support selected projects through post-hackathon mentoring or incubation opportunities
Why get involved?
- Make a direct impact on shaping Europe’s cybersecurity readiness
- Discover future colleagues, collaborators or recruits
- Contribute to real innovation in areas of societal and strategic relevance
- Expand your network across academia, government, and the digital industry
- Be recognised as a thought leader and supporter of the cybersecurity ecosystem
Interested?
We are currently onboarding mentors for the event: Register now!
To express your interest or request further information, please contact: peter.balogh@uni-nke.hu
Let’s build resilience, together.
By mentoring at the European Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025, you’re not just guiding teams — you’re empowering innovation that protects Europe’s digital future.
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