🔍 General information

What is Hack4Rail?

Hack4Rail is a cross‑railway employee hackathon by ÖBB, SBB, DB, and the OpenRail Association (ORA). In two and a half days, teams collaboratively develop digital and data‑driven prototypes for international rail challenges.

Who is hosting this year’s event?

Hack4Rail 2026 is hosted by ÖBB, in collaboration with DB, SBB, and the OpenRail Association. The Hackathon will take place from 22–24 June at the ÖBB Open Innovation Factory in Vienna.

In which language is the event held?

The event language is English.

Who is eligible to participate?

Employees of:

  • Ă–BB
  • SBB
  • DB
  • Member railways of the OpenRail Association (ORA)

What does the program look like?

Participants will receive the full event program prior to the Hackathon. The schedule is as follows:

  • The Hackathon starts on Monday afternoon with the challenge pitches and team building activities
  • Tuesday is dedicated entirely to working on the challenges and developing digital and data‑driven prototypes.
  • On Wednesday morning, teams submit their solutions, followed by the final presentations.
  • The Hackathon ends on Wednesday afternoon with the jury voting

🧭 Participation & Application

How can I participate?

You can join in two ways:

  1. Submit a Challenge – challenge submissions closed on March 19, it is no longer possible to submit a challenge for Hack4Rail 2026
  2. Join as a Participant – You apply as an individual, join a team on site, and work on one of the selected challenges. Participant registration starts on 1 April.

Before registering, please ensure that you have aligned with your line manager.

➡️ More details here

Do I need prior hackathon experience?

No. You can participate even without previous hackathon experience.

Do I need programming skills?

Basic programming skills are not mandatory, but they are certainly beneficial and can give you an advantage when working on technical solutions.

Valuable skills also include:

  • Presentation skills & Storytelling
  • Railway‑specific knowledge
  • Analytical thinking & Structured problem‑solving

How are places allocated?

To ensure balanced and interdisciplinary teams, places are assigned with attention to a good mix of roles and competencies. These competencies are collected during the application process.

How are teams formed?

The selected challenges will be published on 1 April. Applicants can indicate their preference during the application process. However, the final teams will only be formed on site at the beginning of the hackathon.

What should I bring to the event?

A laptop, charger, and any tools you might need for development or prototyping.

Will mentoring or support be available?

Yes. At least one Challenge Owner will be on site to support teams and answer questions related to their challenge. In addition, experts from the participating railway organisations will also be on site to support teams throughout the hackathon.

đź’Ľ Organisation, Travel & Costs

Can participation be counted as working hours?

The regulation is specific to each railway and must be discussed and agreed upon with your line manager.

What about travel & Accommodation?

Participation in Hack4Rail is free of charge. Depending on the host location, costs for accommodation and travel to and from the event may apply. Therefore, please check with your line manager before registering.

➡️ Information regarding travel and accommodation can be found here

Are meals and refreshments provided?

Yes, meals, snacks, and drinks are typically provided throughout the event.

Is remote participation possible?

No. Participation is on-site only, and you must be present for all event days to take part.

đź“ž Contact

Who can I contact if I have further questions?

➡️ Contact information can be found here