Hack the World(s): 24 Hours to Explore the Next Frontier of Artificial Intelligence
The PR[AI]RIE AI Cluster, together with engineering schools ESIEE Paris and Mines Nancy/ACADI, is launching an innovative student hackathon focused on one of the most promising areas of artificial intelligence: World Models.
Hack the World(s) invites participants to take on a unique challenge: 24 hours to reinvent AI. The event will take place on June 19–20, 2026, in the Paris region, hosted by ESIEE Paris.
24 Hours. 100 Students. The Future of AI.
World Models are emerging as one of the most transformative technologies in artificial intelligence, enabling machines to better understand, simulate, and predict complex environments. Through this immersive hackathon, students will have the opportunity to explore, experiment, and innovate at the cutting edge of AI research.
An Exceptional Program
Participants will benefit from an exclusive experience combining technology, research, and innovation:
- 🎟 Access to VivaTech 2026, Europe’s largest technology and startup event
- 🎤 Opening conference at PR[AI]RIE (Paris 5th arrondissement) featuring distinguished event patrons and AI experts
- 🚀 24 hours of intensive hacking at ESIEE Paris, with access to high-performance GPU infrastructure, dedicated mentors, researchers, and industry professionals
- 🏆 Final presentations, jury deliberation, and awards ceremony on Saturday
Prestigious Supporters
Sponsored by Yann LeCun
The event is sponsored by Yann LeCun, one of the world’s leading figures in artificial intelligence.
- Turing Award Laureate
- ESIEE Paris alumnus
- Professor at New York University
- Founder of AMI Labs
Under the High Patronage of Philippe Baptiste
The hackathon is held under the high patronage of Philippe Baptiste, Minister for Higher Education, Research and Space and alumnus of Mines Nancy.
Who Can Apply?
The hackathon is open to:
- Students enrolled in French engineering schools or universities
- Teams of four participants
- 25 selected teams
- A total of 100 available places
A Unique Opportunity for Future AI Innovators
Co-organized by ESIEE Paris, Mines Nancy, the PR[AI]RIE AI Cluster, and ACADI, this event offers a rare opportunity to work on topics at the forefront of artificial intelligence research.
Participants will collaborate with leading researchers, industry experts, and fellow students while tackling challenges that could shape the future of AI. With the support of renowned institutions and internationally recognized AI pioneers, Hack the World(s) provides an exceptional environment for learning, innovation, and networking.
Key Dates
📅 Hackathon: June 19–20, 2026
📅 Application Deadline: May 26, 2026
Information and Registration
Interested students are encouraged to apply and join one of the most ambitious AI student events of 2026.
