Registration is now open for the ETI Labs ImpacThons 2026, a series of international, challenge-based learning experiences bringing together students and recent graduates, higher education institutions and companies to co-create solutions to real-world skills and labour market challenges.
The ImpacThons are a key activity of the EU-funded Erasmus Talent & Innovation Labs (ETI Labs) project, in which AER is a partner. They test innovative, practice-based approaches to strengthening the link between higher education and employment across Europe.
For regional authorities, the ImpacThons offer an opportunity to share these learning experiences with students and graduates in their regions and to follow the outcomes of the pilots, gaining insights into new approaches to skills development, employability and university-business cooperation.
What are ETI Labs ImpacThons?
The ETI Labs ImpacThons are short, intensive international learning experiences where participants work in mixed teams to address real challenges provided by employers and other stakeholders.
Over three days, students and recent graduates collaborate with companies and academics to develop practical solutions using the Purpose, People, Planet, Profit (4P) framework, while building international networks across Europe.
The 3 ImpacThons will take place in autumn 2026 in:
- Innsbruck, Tyrol Region (Austria) – Entrepreneurship (EntreComp)
- Bergen, Vestland Region (Norway) – Sustainability (GreenComp)
- Zagreb, Zagreb Region (Croatia) – Digitalisation (DigComp)
Each ImpacThon focuses on a key competence area linked to European skills frameworks and labour market needs.
For students and recent graduates
Registration is open for students and recent graduates interested in taking part in the ETI Labs ImpacThons. Participants will gain hands-on experience working on real challenges, develop key competences in innovation, sustainability and digital transformation, and expand their international networks. Travel and accommodation costs can be reimbursed by the project.
A European initiative with regional relevance
The ETI Labs ImpacThons demonstrate how innovative learning formats can support stronger links between education and employment. For AER and its member regions, they provide a way to connect local students and graduates to European opportunities, while learning from pilot activities that test new approaches to skills development and cooperation.
