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Youth Ideathon

GEO Global Forum 2025

Are you a young person who is passionate about technology, space and sustainability? Do you want to collaborate with global experts, industry leaders and other forward-thinking youth to tackle real-world challenges? Then the GEO Youth Ideathon is for you! This is your chance to innovate, connect and accelerate your ideas in an immersive, hands-on experience at the GEO Global Forum in Rome in May.

This unique event will bring together tech-savvy, ambitious students and young professionals from diverse backgrounds to explore how Earth observation and geospatial technologies can solve pressing business and societal challenges, from climate resilience to disaster response and sustainable development. As part of our youth delegation, you’ll gain exclusive access to policymakers, industry leaders and GEO experts, all while developing valuable entrepreneurial, consulting and problem-solving skills.

Whether you’re a coder, designer, data scientist, policy enthusiast or entrepreneur, the Youth Ideathon is designed for those ready to step up, innovate and make an impact. Travel, accommodation and meals will be fully covered for successful applicants.

Applicants must be available to be in Rome for the GEO Global Forum from 1 – 9 May. Preference will be given to applications aligned with the GEO Work Programme.

Submit your applications by 18 March 12:00 CET.

Apply now

What to expect

  • Get expert feedback and guidance on your ideas.
  • Work together to solve business problems with geospatial solutions.
  • Gain in-depth consulting and entrepreneurial experience.
  • Work with international peers
  • Showcase your talent to experts at the GEO Global Forum.

Schedule

1 May

Kick-off, Business ideation

2 May

Mock-up design using EO data

3-4 May

Busathon “The Earth talks”

5 May

Meet the experts at Community Event

7 May

Meet the experts

8 May

GEO Plenary Session

9 May

On-site youth networking event

FAQ

Q: Will I receive ECTS credits for this event?

A: No, this is a volunteer event.

Q: Will I receive a certificate of participation?

A: Yes, all participants will receive a certificate, and top winners will get prizes and social media attention.

Q: Can I attend only part(s) of the event?

A: Only with prior written notice and approval.

Q: Will meals and lodging be covered?

A: Yes, all meals and accommodation will be covered by the organisers.

Q: Will travel costs be covered?

A: Yes, all travel expenses for participation will be paid by the event organisers.

Q: Who can I contact for questions?

secretariat@geosec.org

Apply now