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IDDA Hackathon

October 17, 2025 - October 19, 2025
Istanbul

The IDDA Hackathon 2025 is a 48-hour fintech innovation marathon powered by Tenity and IDDA.

Applications opening soon

The IDDA Hackathon is more than just a competition—it’s a 48-hour fintech innovation marathon where students, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts come together to tackle pressing financial challenges and transform ideas into actionable solutions. By fostering collaboration across diverse skill sets, the hackathon provides a launchpad for the next wave of fintech startups in Azerbaijan.

  • Fostering Innovation
    Building an ecosystem where creative business ideas and fintech product concepts don’t just start—they grow into real-world solutions.
  • Spotting Talent & Teams
    Simplifying the evaluation process for identifying high-potential founders and teams, while giving companies a testing ground for innovative ideas.
  • Accelerating Growth
    Creating industry-specific opportunities, supporting the journey from idea to market, and catalyzing growth for fintech entrepreneurs.

Evaluation Criteria

1. Innovation and Creativity
This criterion evaluates the originality of the proposed solutions. Judges will look for bold, groundbreaking ideas that introduce fresh approaches to solving fintech challenges. Out-of-the-box thinking and creative problem-solving will be highly rewarded.

2. User Experience and Engagement
Participants’ solutions will be assessed on their ability to deliver a seamless and engaging user experience. Intuitive design, smooth navigation, and features that enhance customer or partner engagement will stand out in this category.

3. Feasibility and Technical Viability
Judges will consider how realistic and achievable the solutions are. Ideas that demonstrate a clear understanding of technical requirements, resource needs, and integration into existing financial systems will score higher.

What
IDDA Hackathon is a 48-hour sprint where teams tackle pressing fintech challenges and transform bold ideas into real solutions.
When
October 17-19, 2025
Where
Baku, Azerbaijan

Program Timeline

Openning Applications
12 September 2025
Closing Applications
10 October 2025
Hackathon Kickoff
17 October 2025
Hackathon Progress
17-18-19 October 2025
Hackathon Demo Day
19 October 2025

Benefits

$4,500 Prize Pool

Win from a total prize pool of $4,500, with rewards for the top three teams and recognition for outstanding solutions.

Mentorship from Experts

Work side by side with experienced mentors who will guide you through ideation, prototyping, and pitching.

Ecosystem Visibility

Gain exposure within the Azerbaijani and international fintech ecosystem, opening doors to future collaborations.

Pathway to Incubation

The most promising teams will have the chance to advance into the IDDA Incubation Program for further support.

Networking Opportunities

Connect with like-minded peers, industry experts, corporates, and investors throughout the hackathon.

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IDDA Azerbaijan

IDDA provides organization, coordination, and implementation of activities in the fields of digital transformation and innovation.

What we'll cover

Find out what we will cover in our masterclasses.

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Requirements

  • Open to individuals or teams
  • Ideal for students, developers, designers, product managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs
  • Interest in fintech and technology is expected
  • Commitment to actively participate during the 48-hour hackathon weekend
  • Focus topics

    1. Digital Payments

    Description: Fast, secure and low-cost digital payment solutions are at the heart of a growing digital economy.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can SMEs access affordable and efficient digital payment infrastructure?
    • How can real time payments between different currencies and countries be enabled?

    2. Open Banking & AI based Services

    Description: API enabled sharing of banking data allows third parties to deliver personalised, intelligent financial services.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can open banking be used to offer smart financial recommendations to users?
    • How can AI predict customer behaviour and provide proactive financial guidance?

    3. RegTech & Cybersecurity

    Description: Regulatory compliance and cybersecurity are critical challenges in the financial sector requiring automation and protection.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can KYC/AML processes be automated and made more efficient for financial institutions?
    • How can digital financial assets be safeguarded against cyber attacks?

    4. Digital Banking & Wealth Management

    Description: Banking services are becoming fully digital, while wealth management is being democratized through micro-investing tools.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can investment products be made more accessible for younger or low-budget users?
    • What products can deliver a seamless “one-stop-shop” digital banking experience?

    5. Embedded Finance & Super Apps

    Description: Financial services are now built into non-financial platforms like e-commerce, logistics and social media.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can financial services be embedded without disrupting overall user experience?
    • How can a super app offer multiple financial services under one roof?

    6. Cross-Border Payments & Remittances

    Description: International money transfers remain slow and expensive there is huge demand for smarter solutions.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can payments between diasporas and their home countries be made faster and cheaper?
    • Can crypto or digital assets be leveraged to reduce the cost of cross border transfers?

    7. SME & Supply Chain Financing

    Description: Fintech can bridge the financing gap for SMEs using real-time supply chain data and alternative underwriting models.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can supply chain data be used to offer instant credit to SMEs?
    • How can invoice-based or dynamic financing models be automated?

    8. BNPL & Alternative Lending Models

    Description: New consumer credit models like Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) are becoming popular but need smart risk control.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can access to BNPL be expanded without increasing default risk?
    • What tools can improve customer discipline and repayment behaviour?

    9. Financial Inclusion & Digital ID

    Description: Extending financial access to unbanked populations remains a global priority, supported by digital identity tools.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can alternative data be used to evaluate creditworthiness for the unbanked?
    • How can digital identity platforms improve access to basic financial services?

    10. WealthTech & Robo-Advisory

    Description: AIpowered robo advisors are helping individuals access low-cost, personalized investment advice.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can automated investment tools be made attractive to first-time investors?
    • How can financial advice become truly adaptive to real-time user behaviour?

    11. InsurTech Innovations

    Description: Insurance is being transformed with IoT, usage based products and hyper personalised offers.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can simple and affordable micro-insurance be designed for younger demographics?
    • How can IoT data be used to improve risk assessment and pricing accuracy?

    12. Tokenization & Digital Asset Infrastructure

    Description: Tokenizing real world assets offers new ways for people to invest and manage digital wealth.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can real estate or physical assets be tokenized to enable fractional ownership?
    • What infrastructure is needed to safely store and transfer digital assets?

    13. Climate Fintech & Green Finance

    Description: Climate conscious financial products are growing as sustainability becomes a defining investment theme.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can fintech help individuals or businesses measure and reduce their carbon footprint?
    • What tools can boost ESG investment and unlock access to green capital?

    14. Sustainability & Diversity

    Description:

    Sustainability and diversity are becoming core values in finance and technology, driving responsible growth and inclusive innovation. Financial institutions and startups alike are expected to reduce their environmental impact while ensuring equal access and representation across all user groups.

    Problem Statements:

    • How can fintech solutions help organizations track, report, and reduce their environmental footprint?
    • What tools can ensure diverse and inclusive access to financial products for underrepresented communities?
    • How can AI driven platforms minimize algorithmic bias and promote fairness in financial decision-making?
    • What innovative models can encourage sustainable consumer behaviours (e.g., green spending, impact investing)?

    Meet
    the team

    Sabina Babayeva

    Sabina Babayeva

    Hub Lead | Tenity Istanbul Hub
    Esengül Sağdınç Eren

    Esengül Sağdınç Eren

    Programs Director | Tenity Istanbul Hub
    İlayda Bahadıroğlu

    İlayda Bahadıroğlu

    Program Manager | Tenity Istanbul Hub
    Nazlı Çam

    Nazlı Çam

    Program Analyst
    Rustam Madadzada

    Rustam Madadzada

    IDDA - Chapter lead of International Innovation Programs

    Meet the executive mentors

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    Have questions?

    Reach out to our team

    İlayda Bahadıroğlu

    İlayda Bahadıroğlu

    Program Manager | Tenity Istanbul Hub

    Apply now

    The IDDA Hackathon 2025 is a 48-hour fintech innovation marathon powered by Tenity and IDDA.

    FAQ

    What is a hackathon?

    A hackathon is a technical competition where software developers, designers, and business enthusiasts form teams of 4–6 people and collaborate intensively over two days to create new projects and solutions.

    What is the IDDA Hackathon?

    The IDDA Hackathon is a 48-hour fintech innovation challenge that brings together students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and the local tech community to solve real business problems. Teams work to build MVPs, pitch their solutions, and unlock pathways to incubation for the most promising ideas.

    What are the themes of the IDDA Hackathon?

    The IDDA Hackathon focuses on fintech innovation, with themes including:

    • Digital Payments
    • Open Banking & AI-powered Services
    • RegTech & Cybersecurity
    • Digital Banking & Wealth Management
      You can find more details in the Categories section of this website.

    Who can participate?

    We welcome software developers, designers, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts who want to experience the hackathon spirit and develop innovative fintech projects. Teams should consist of 4–6 people.

    How can I join the IDDA Hackathon?

    To participate, apply as a team by filling out the application form. Only one team member should submit the form on behalf of the group, including accurate details for all participants (name, surname, email, phone number, LinkedIn). Incomplete or inaccurate applications may result in disqualification. Selected teams must bring their own laptops.

    How will winners be evaluated?

    The jury and mentors will assess teams throughout the hackathon, considering both teamwork and the quality of the final solution. Evaluation criteria include:

    • Innovation
    • Scalability
    • Product–market fit
    • Presentation quality
    • Alignment with program goals
      Winners will be announced after the final pitches.
    Is the program free of charge?

    Yes, participation in the IDDA Hackathon is free for all selected participants. The event will take place offline in Azerbaijan.

    What does the program include?

    The hackathon combines intensive project development with training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. In addition to working on your solution, you will attend workshops and connect with leading fintech experts.

    Can we code our project in advance?

    No. All coding and development must take place during the 48-hour hackathon. Any pre-coded projects will be disqualified, even if they are selected as winners.

    How will the awards be decided?

    Final presentations will be evaluated by the jury on the last day of the hackathon, and winners will be announced based on the scoring criteria.

    Do we need to be physically present for the entire event?

    Not for all 48 hours. However, physical presence is required during official working hours, training sessions, and mentorship activities. Overnight coding may be done online or from home if preferred.

    What will be the language of the program?

    While most participants are expected from Azerbaijan, the official language of the hackathon will be English to ensure inclusivity and alignment with international standards.

    Is travel support provided for international participants?

    No. The IDDA Hackathon does not cover travel expenses for foreign teams.

    What are the benefits of participating?

    Participants gain mentorship, training, and networking opportunities with fintech experts. Outstanding teams will also be considered for the IDDA Incubation Program, providing further support, visibility, and market access.

    How long does the program run?

    The hackathon runs for 48 hours and concludes with a Demo Day. Winning teams may then be invited to join the IDDA Incubation Program, which runs from October 2025 to February 2026.

    Who should I contact if I have more questions?

    For additional questions, please contact Ilayda Bahadıroğlu, Program Manager at Tenity Istanbul, at ilayda.bahadiroglu@tenity.com.