Hack4Change 2026: Tackling Circular Economy Challenges in Hackathon

760 first-year students took part in Hack4Change 2026, a dynamic three-day social innovation hackathon hosted by Dublin City University Business School this week. The event brought together students, industry speakers, and sustainability mentors to develop creative solutions to real-world challenges linked to the circular economy.

Run as part of the Learning Innovation for Enterprise (LIFE) module, the hackathon engaged students from DCU Business School and the Climate and Environmental Sustainability Futures programme. Across multiple sessions held in the U Building on the Glasnevin campus, students worked in teams under tight deadlines to identify issues, generate ideas, and propose actionable responses to sustainability challenges affecting businesses and communities.

This year’s event builds on the momentum of the DCU–Deloitte strategic alliance, with Deloitte mentors on campus supporting students throughout the three days. Their involvement continues to strengthen Hack4Change as a key platform for hands-on learning, industry engagement, and real-world problem-solving.

Circular thinking in action

Students were presented with circular economy challenges on the spot and tasked with developing innovative solutions in real time. Using structured ideation methods and Hack Impact Canvases, teams shaped their ideas into practical, impact-driven proposals, highlighting both environmental and social outcomes.

Each session was energised by guest speakers from across Ireland’s social enterprise and sustainability ecosystem, who shared insights and real-world experience to inspire student thinking.

Supported by experts and mentors

The hackathon was supported by over 50 mentors from DCU and Deloitte, who worked closely with student teams, offering guidance, feedback, and practical advice to refine their ideas.

The event was led by Dr. Colette Real and Dr. Catherine Faherty, supported by a dedicated team of teaching assistants and staff who ensured the smooth running of sessions throughout the week.

The following list of speakers took part:

Chris Gordon	Irish Social Enterprise Network
Scott Bryan	Community Roots
Dr. Joanne Rourke	Dublin City Council
Dr. Clodagh O’Reilly	Social Enterprise Solutions
Adam Boland	Rediscovery Centre
Franziska O’Donnell and Anthony Mills	Rethink Ireland
Sinead Ryan	Little Fitness
Alpana Delaney	Change Please
Anthony Burrowes	SISK
Evanne Kilmurray	Inner City Enterprise
Aubrey McCarthy	Tiglin
Lucie Cunningham	THE HomeShare
Sorcha Killian	Hygiene Hub
Daragh Anglim	Broadlaka
Eileen McHugh	Hair Together
Shane Reilly	Moyee
Chris Gordon	Irish Social Enterprise Network

From concepts to content

To communicate their ideas beyond the classroom, students once again created social media content to showcase their sustainability challenges and solutions. These posts helped extend the reach of their ideas and formed part of the overall evaluation, rewarding both creativity and impact.

Creativity, collaboration, and impact

This week, 760 first-year students took on the challenge at Hack4Change 2026 — demonstrating impressive creativity, energy, and commitment to social innovation. Working under pressure, they developed solutions with real potential to drive positive environmental and social change.

Recognition and rewards were provided throughout the event, with standout teams celebrated for their innovation and effort.

What an inspiring three days of creativity, collaboration, and positive change!

Social Media Metrics

Our Hack4Change Instagram account played a key role in bringing student ideas to life beyond the event itself. Throughout the three days, teams shared engaging posts and stories that captured their challenges, solutions, and creative journeys. The account became a vibrant hub of activity, amplifying student voices and extending the reach of their work to a wider audience. From insightful concepts to eye-catching visuals, the content showcased not only the innovation behind each idea but also the students’ ability to communicate impact in a clear and compelling way.

Likes: 213
Comments: 33
Reposts: 16
Saves: 4
Views: 33,627