StartITup Győr | Empowering Future Entrepreneurs and Strengthening Local Innovation
About this good practice
City of Győr in Western Hungary, despite its strong industrial background (automotive and mechanical engineering), lacked a startup ecosystem that could attract and retain young entrepreneurs while positioning the city on Europe’s tech map.
The challenge was to create a space where startups and businesses could collaborate fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Retaining skilled young professionals and increasing female participation in entrepreneurship were also key goals.
Founded in 2017 as a nonprofit organisation StartITup Győr provides a dynamic & inclusive environment for startups through networking events, mentoring, workshops, and incubation programs.
One of its flagship initiatives ‘Ideathon’ has grown into one of Hungary’s largest idea competitions since 2018. This intensive 3-day program focuses on early-stage ideas, helping participants refine solutions with the support of mentors and facilitators. Teams form on-site and work on predefined challenges using latest methodologies. The program concludes with a pitch competition, where teams present their ideas to an expert jury. Through Ideathon, StartITup empowers entrepreneurs to develop their ideas & connect with potential investors, business partners.
Key stakeholders are mainly startups, young entrepreneurs, local SMEs, corporations, universities & municipal authorities. Beneficiaries are primarily aspiring entrepreneurs, tech innovators and students looking for business opportunities.
Resources needed
Organizing a 70-participant event like Ideathon costs approximately €15,000–€26,000, covering event organization, mentor and speaker involvement, and prizes. Successful execution requires a dedicated team of 5-7 core staff, 8–12 mentors and 8–10 volunteers, with sponsorship helping to reduce costs.
Evidence of success
Since 2018, Ideathon has grown into one of Hungary’s largest idea competitions, engaging over 360 participants. Supported by 100+ organizations—including major corporations and universities—through sponsorships, pro bono speakers, and mentorship, the event offers an inspiring environment and hands-on support. It helps turn ideas into tangible outcomes while strengthening Győr’s ecosystem, retaining young talent, and boosting female participation in entrepreneurship.
Potential for learning or transfer
Ideathon offers a replicable model for fostering early-stage innovation and entrepreneurship. Its success lies in structured mentorship, strong industry partnerships, and an inclusive approach, making it adaptable to various regional contexts. The program’s ability to engage local businesses, universities, and public stakeholders ensures sustainability and long-term impact.
Key success factors for transfer are:
- local stakeholder engagement - strong collaboration between SMEs, corporates, and universities
- structured methodology - the hackathon-style approach allows for quick idea validation and networking.
- the focus on young professionals and women in entrepreneurship makes it valuable for regions facing talent drain.
Potential barriers to transfer:
- Without engaged mentors and sponsors, impact may be limited.
- The event series requires initial funding from municipalities, corporate sponsors.
Further information
Good practice owner
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