The hackathon, led by the European Innovation Council and in close collaboration with the EU Member States, will connect civil society, innovators, partners and investors across Europe to develop innovative solutions aimed at fighting the coronavirus outbreak. Commissioner Gabriel said: “The #EUvsVirus Hackathon is a great example of the European cooperative spirit I so admire. When times get tough we come together, work together and we will beat this virus together for everyone. I thank all those that have given their free time, boundless energy and expertise to make this a reality. Tomorrow is just the beginning - the solutions will be the true reward.”
Together with Commissioner Gabriel, interventions at the opening ceremony tomorrow are foreseen at highest level from representatives of EU Institutions, namely Luca Jahier, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, President of the European Committee of the Regions, and Cristian-Silviu Bu?oi, Chair of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy ITRE at the European Parliament. Over 12,000 participants have registered to the hackathon, which is structured around several categories of problems that need short-term solutions in relation to coronavirus health and life, business continuity, remote working and education, social and political cohesion, digital finance and other challenges.
All 27 EU Member States are taking part as well as other countries. The winning solutions will be invited to join a European Innovation Council COVID Platform, which will be launched here on 27 April, to facilitate connections with end users, such as hospitals, and provide access to investors, foundations and other funding opportunities from across the EU.
*Source: European Commission
By: N. Peter Kramer
