Co-op Hackathon 

Promoting digital innovation in the co-op movement is a major part of our strategy. We want to amplify and increase collaboration around tech – how we develop it, how we share it, how it empowers co-ops across our movement. 

The Co-op Hackathon takes place on 19 and 20 October 2023 in London. It will bring together tech co-operators to collaboratively develop digital solutions for the UK co-op movement and beyond. 

The Hackathon has three parts: 

• 19 October, 6-8pm: Event launch, initial project pitches and networking 

• 20 October, 9am-5pm: Co-op Hackathon  

• 20 October, 6-8pm: Presentation of projects developed during the day 

The Co-op Hackathon is being delivered by Co-operatives UK in partnership with The Co-operative Bank – supporting fair and ethical business together.

Ways to get involved 

We’re inviting anyone with a passion for collaborative tech to get involved – you can do this in different ways: 

1. Submit an idea, project or product to develop

Are you working on an inspiring tech or digital idea, project or product for a co-op or for the co-op movement? Submit it to us for the Co-op Hackathon. We will shortlist projects to collaborate on during the Hackathon and one could be yours! 

Examples of projects we’d like to see: 

• Platform co-ops 
• Community tech projects for co-ops 
• Software or digital infrastructure for the co-op movement and beyond 
• Protocols/standards/licences for the co-op movement 

Please submit your proposal by midnight Wednesday 20 September 2023. Selected teams will get the chance to present their proposal at the launch event and will be promoted in the build-up to the event. We have a limited number of bursaries for the people working on shortlisted projects – up to £150 towards the cost of travel and accommodation. Please indicate on the form if you'd like to be considered.

2. Contribute your skills, experience or expertise to a project

This is a great opportunity to contribute your skills and expertise to some inspiring ideas – and meet the people behind them.

Do you have digital skills or expertise you can share? We particularly welcome developers, data scientists, designers, project managers, etc. But if your skills are from a different field, there are lots of ways to contribute. Register to take part as a contributor.

3. Attend the presentations

If you aren’t able to join the full Hackathon, there are two evening events (6-8pm on 19 and 20 October). Here you will learn about the inspiring projects we'll be collaborating on and meet the teams working on them. Register to attend one or both evening events.

Where is the event taking place?

The Co-op Hackathon will take place on 19 and 20 October at The Foundry, London, SE11 5RR.