Ever since it was founded, the European Forum Alpbach has focused on building a strong, democratic and united Europe. At the European Forum Alpbach 2025, we want to recharge Europe: an energised Europe that preserves its foundational principles while embracing change to build a better future for all. True to the motto: proud of what it stands for and ready for what is to come.

We bring together the most innovative minds from politics, business, civil society, culture and science to find solutions for the most pressing issues in the areas of climate, democracy and rule of law, finance and economy, and security. 

In 2024, around 4,300 participants from around 100 nations, including 500 young scholarship holders under 30, came to the picturesque Alpine village Alpbach. 

Find out more about the Forum

During the Hackathon, organized by MEGA Bildungsstiftung and Liechtenstein Group from 21th to 24th August 2025 at the European Forum Alpbach we want to tackle the role of financial and economic literacy in shaping the future.

The Hackathon concept is designed to foster hands-on collaboration, encouraging the further development of national and international projects in a participatory and interdisciplinary setting. Projects must present a specific growth challenge and will participate in intensive collaboration with national and international experts. They will leverage expertise in finance, economics, education, entrepreneurship, and scaling to develop innovative solutions and strategies.

The Hackathon promises not only intellectual stimulation but also rewards. Three outstanding projects will be awarded in the end a substantial prize of 5,000 Euros each.

Good financial and economic education is still a privilege that is often reserved for affluent families with high incomes and social status. In the group of 14- to 27-year-olds, two-thirds of people in Austria feel financially insecure. Additionally, an increasing number of young people are struggling with debt, as figures from the Fonds Soziales Wien show.

Funding for the three best ideas and access to the MEGA growth accelerator program.

As participant of the Hackathon you will receive a 4-day ticket to the European Forum Alpbach 2025 and accomodation between 21th and 24th August.

Engage in sparring and networking opportunities with a diverse array of professionals. Throughout the Hackathon, we'll assemble bright minds from various backgrounds to foster collaboration and exchange of ideas.