The VDS hackathon that brings out the best in tech talent. Now in its fifth edition, taking place on Oct 21-22, The Challenge welcomes over 70 carefully selected participants to tackle real-world challenges, explore the latest hiring trends, receive specialised training and connect with companies looking for new talent. Join the real talent movement!
The Challenge 2026
On October 21-22, The Challenge lands at VDS 2026, one of Europe’s leading tech events, at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia. As part of NextTalent, the talent platform of VDS powered by Startup Valencia, it brings young talent into the heart of the tech ecosystem to tackle real challenges, connect with companies and turn potential into proof.
Ready for 6 real challenges?
Innovation and climate tech set the stage for six challenges built to test how you think, collaborate and turn ideas into action. The companies and full challenges will be revealed soon, so keep an eye out.
Take on real challenges
Prizes & perks
The challenge doesn’t end when the clock stops. Take away fast-track training, a VDS Certified badge for LinkedIn, access to NextTalent Jobs, a final celebration at NextTalent Fest and much more.
Previous edition
Watch the recap of The Challenge and experience how selected participants come together to solve real-world challenges, work in multidisciplinary teams and connect directly with companies. A hands-on experience where you test your skills, learn by doing and turn potential into real opportunities inside the tech ecosystem.
Faqs
Everything you need before taking on The Challenge
Got questions before applying? Here’s the important stuff, without the small print.
No. Places are limited, and applications will be reviewed to select the profiles that best fit the experience. We’ll contact you once the selection process is complete.
Yes. Applying and taking part in The Challenge is free for selected participants.
No. Places are limited, and applications will be reviewed to select the profiles that best fit the experience. We’ll contact you once the selection process is complete.
No. You can apply on your own. Selected participants will receive more information about the teams and how the challenges will work before the event.
The Challenge takes place on October 21-22 at VDS 2026, at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia.
Applications close on September 20. Don’t leave it until the last tab open on your browser.
You’ll tackle real challenges proposed by companies across innovation and climate tech. The participating companies and full challenges will be revealed soon.
Beyond the experience, you’ll access fast-track training, a VDS Certified badge for LinkedIn, NextTalent Jobs, the closing experience at NextTalent Fest and more.
We’ll review your application and contact you with the result and next steps. Keep an eye on your inbox.
Still not registered for The Challenge?
Applications close on September 20. This is your chance to be part of the 2026 edition, step forward and prove you’re ready for what’s next. Make sure you’re in.
The Challenge Partner
Built with partners
Want to Propose a Challenge?
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