DataFest Germany 2026
6–8 March 2026
We are glad to announce our call for applications to join the 9th edition of DataFest Germany, which will take place at the University of Mannheim (March 6–8, 2026), jointly organized by the School of Social Sciences and the Mannheim Center for Data Science. This year marks the 9th edition of our DataFest in Germany, which has been organized since 2015 in collaboration with the Chair for Statistics and Data Science in Social Sciences and the Humanities at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich.
What is DataFest Germany?
The event is a data-based competition, also known as a “hackathon” which takes place annually, alternating between Mannheim and Munich, and hosted in cooperation with partners from industry and research institutions.
Bachelor and Masters-level students of all subjects participate in teams of 3–5 persons, having 48 hours to gain the best insights and derive relevant analysis from an extensive data set, which is not revealed until the start of the event. Data is visualized, analysed, modelled and much more. At the end of the event, the students present their results to a jury of renowned data experts from business, science and DataFest alumni. Prizes will be awarded for the categories “Best Insight”, “Best Visualization”, “Best Data Quality Reflection” and “Best Use of Outside Data”.
During the competition, students are supported by a team of statistics and computer science experts from University of Mannheim as well as professional consultants from external partner institutions. In addition, participants have the opportunity to make contact with potential employers at the event's internal CareerFair.
Our Datafest Germany, is a celebration that follows upon the model initiated in the USA. DataFest™ has been a permanent feature of the American Statistical Association for several years now. The world's first DataFest took place at the University of California in 2011; since then, many other universities have taken up the format and offer DataFests. Today there are DataFest events worldwide.
Why should you participate?
DataFest Germany is jointly organized by
KODAQS partnership with Datafest Germany
Entering our second year of cooperation, we are pleased to renew our partnership with the Competence Center for Data Quality in the Social Sciences (KODAQS), reinforcing our mission to support the professional development of future data scientists and the expansion of Germany’s data science community. A team of Doctoral and Postdoctoral researchers will participate parallelly (and separately) to the main Datafest contest, with the mission to develop analytical proposals, methodologies and tools for data quality measurement. KODAQS is a collaboration between LMU, University of Mannheim and GESIS – Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences. The project aims to foster a new culture for teaching data quality skills in the social sciences. For more information about KODAQS, please contact Dr. Florian Bemmann (florian.bemmannuni-mannheim.de).
How to apply for participation in DataFest 2026?
- Please submit your application through our Application Form. The deadline is 31 January 2026 (AoE). We are excited to receive your application!
- Bachelor and Masters-level students of all subjects are welcome to apply in teams of 2–5 people.
- Because of the assignment's complexity, we strongly recommend that your team consist of at least three people.
- Unfortunately, we will not accept teams with doctoral students or post-docs. If you would still like to participate, contact us to be considered as a DataFest Germany advisor.
- We will screen all applications when the application deadline has passed, and will get back to you with our decisions beginning of February 2026.
Please keep in mind
- To ensure a fair and consistent experience for all participants, we kindly request that teams exclusively work on the dataset while at the DataFest site.
- At least two members from each team must be present at the beginning of the event.
- The details of DataFest assignments remain confidential until the event kicks off.
FAQ's
Where will be the venue of the Datafest Germany 2026?
The event will take place at the Lecture Hall A001, located in Building B6 (A), 23–25 (Mannheim).
Will there be food?
Yes! We will provide plenty of food and drinks throughout the duration of the event. So you can focus entirely on your data work.
Will there be accommodation?
Unfortunately, we are not able to provide dedicated accommodation during the event. However, we have compiled a list of recommended places for your accommodation (PDF, 50 kB), as well as some tips and ideas for your stay in Mannheim.
Can I participate even if I am not affiliated with the University of Mannheim?
Yes, we very much welcome people from outside Mannheim.
Can I participate without a team?
Participation without a team is not possible. Not only are you more productive and creative as a team, but you will also share some really good moments together. Shall you want to participate but don’t have a team, we will offer you the opportunity to connect with others who are also looking for a team: datafest2026 Discord Server, where you can find others looking for a team as well. After you have found your team on the Discord Channel you can fill out the application form together with your new team.
What can I win?
At the close of the event, teams present their results to a jury of experts. Prizes are awarded in four categories:
- Best Insight
- Best Visualization
- Best Data Quality Reflection
- Best Use of Outside Data
We won't spoil the prizes, but rest assured, they are worth the effort.
I have another question…
Please send us an email with your question to: datafestuni-mannheim.de.
Past editions of DataFest Germany
This year marks the 7th edition of our DataFest in Germany, which has been organized since 2015 in collaboration with the Chair for Statistics and Data Science in Social Sciences and the Humanities at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich. Below you can find relevant information and video testimonials about our past editions:
- DataFest 2025 in Munich
- DataFest 2024 in Mannheim
- DataFest 2023 in Munich
- DataFest 2019 in Mannheim
- DataFest 2017 in Mannheim
- DataFest 2016 in Munich (German only)
- DataFest 2015 in Mannheim (German only)
- DataFest at Duke University in the USA
Support our DataFest
Information for employers and sponsors
DataFest Germany offers students a unique opportunity to work with real-world data and connect directly with potential employers. By supporting the event, you help us host talented students, advance the DataFest mission, and expose participants to complex, real-world challenges that can be addressed through data analysis.
Key reasons to partner with us:
- Direct access to emerging talent: DataFest brings together top Bachelor’s and Master’s students for a 48-hour analytics competition, showcasing exceptional analytical and creative skills.
- High visibility for your organization: Sponsors have the opportunity to benefit from presence on the event website, press releases, social media, and dedicated branding opportunities during the Career Fair (e.g., talks, briefings, brochures, stands, souvenirs, etc.).
- Meaningful engagement opportunities: Partners can interact with students through talks, recruitment stands, and even potential jury participation, connecting your organization with a nationwide network of universities and future data scientists.
If you would like to support DataFest Germany, please contact datafestuni-mannheim.de.
Contact
Dr. Florian Bemmann
Florian Bemmann
Coordinator of DataFest Germany 2026
Feel free to reach out to us at datafestuni-mannheim.de.