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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.