Interreg EST-LAT projekt Hack the Borderlink opens on new page
Interreg Estonia - Latvia project “Hack the Border”
Valga-Valka, known as the twin cities introducing themselves as “one city, two countries,” face unique challenges in fostering meaningful cross-border collaboration.
The Interreg Est-Lat project Hack the Border brings together Estonian and Latvian youth aged 15-20 to discuss the challenges of the twin city and to develop solutions that make life in the border town better.
The project is not only about hacking ideas - it is about strengthening the community and building new skills. For the first time, close cooperation is created between schools in Valga and Valka, fostering trust and paving the way for future joint projects.
“Hack the Border” also equips young people with tools for the future. 💡
Through workshops and mentoring, participants will develop entrepreneurship and career skills: how to create and present ideas, communicate effectively, and work together. They will improve problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork - the very skills valued in today’s job market.
Project activities
- 8 October 2025 - Opening event at Valka Cultural House.
- 30 October - 1 November 2025 - A two-day Hackathon in Kääriku, where mixed Estonian-Latvian teams will develop solutions for Valga-Valka challenges.
- November 2025 - April 2026 - Mentoring, workshops and study trips in Estonia and Latvia.
- May 2026 - The Demo Day (closing event), where all teams will present their final project concepts to the local community.
“Hack the Border” is a seed for future collaboration, giving Valga-Valka youth the opportunity to shape the future of the border town and step confidently into working life.
Project partners:
Garage48 (The lead partner)
Valga County Vocational Training Centre
Valka Gymnasium
Project duration: 1.09.2025 - 30.08.2026
