Join the Maker Train Experience Challenge

Challenges connect you with brands seeking your expertise through project requests or “bounties.” Submit a proposal quickly, as spots fill fast, and if selected, complete the project and publish it on Hackster to earn the payout. Outstanding submissions may also receive a cash bonus.

This is your chance to collaborate with Nordic Semiconductor and Hackster.io to deliver an unforgettable hands-on technical workshop aboard the Maker Train Experience at the Fab25 conference in the Czech Republic.

This challenge is exclusively available to Hackster PRO members. Not a member? Learn more and join Hackster PRO.

Fab25 Highlights:

• Dates: July 4–11, 2025
• Locations: Brno & Prague, Czech Republic
• Unique Feature: The Maker Train connects these vibrant cities with a 2.5-hour interactive workshop ride.

Learn more about the event here

You’ll design and host a workshop for 20 participants using the Nordic Thingy:91 X, the new Nordic prototyping platform for cellular IoT applications. Inspire attendees, foster new connections, and elevate your reputation as a leading maker.

We're looking for a workshop that incorporates many of the amazing features in the Nordic Thingy:91 X. Be sure to review the device specs and develop a workshop that incorporates select features in an engaging format.

Why Participate?

• $600 payout for accepted proposals to develop and deliver your solution.
• $5,000 contract for the winning workshop, ensuring you join us in person at Fab25.
• Be celebrated as a developer advocate, educator, and IoT innovator.

How It Works

1. Submit a Proposal: Share your detailed plan for the workshop, including:

• Pre-event preparation: Your timeline for getting ready.
• Workshop design: What will participants create? How will it engage and excite?
• Materials list: Include everything needed for 20 participants.
• Event agenda: A full timetable and content plan, including potential multi-location formats (e.g., sessions in Brno, Prague, and during the train ride).
• Impact assessment: Describe how you would report the value of your workshop to the maker community and Nordic Semiconductor.

2. Showcase Your Expertise: Share your profile as part of the Proposal, including:

• Proof of your qualifications as a workshop facilitator (e.g., past community engagements, testimonials, media).
• Completion of Nordic’s Cellular IoT Fundamentals Certification.

3. Selection Process: Hackster will evaluate all proposals and select those to be awarded.

• Only 3 proposals will be awarded the contract to build out. Awarded participants are called Contenders.

4. Build the Solution: Get paid to make your proposal a reality.

• The 3 Contenders will receive a Thingy:91 X to develop their workshop.
• $600 will be paid to each Contender who develops and delivers a full Solution based on the original Proposal within the deadline period. Dependant on Hackster’s acceptance.

5. Top Prize: Hackster judges all Solutions and picks the top one!

• After all Solutions are delivered, Hackster and Nordic will judge the top Solution.
• The creator of the top workshop solution will win a $5,000 contract to travel to Fab25 in the Czech Republic and deliver the experience live on the Maker Train.

What is the Nordic Thingy:91 X?

The Thingy:91 X is a powerful, global-ready prototyping platform ideal for IoT applications. Features include:

• Global connectivity: LTE-M, NB-IoT, and GNSS support.
• Advanced location tracking: Cellular, Wi-Fi, and GNSS with nRF Cloud Location Services.
• Comprehensive sensors: Monitor environmental conditions and movement.
• Perfect for asset tracking and innovative IoT solutions.
• Learn more about the Thingy:91 X on Farnell/Newark

Ready to Shape the Future of IoT and Engage the Maker Community?

Submit your proposal today to secure your spot in this exciting, fast-filling opportunity. Proposals close soon—don’t miss your chance to make your mark at Fab25! Submit your proposal now!

Prizes

Grand Award

1 winner

$5000 Travel Grant

Travel with the Hackster team to the event and present in person! Adding evangelizer as your badge!

Solution Reward

3 winners

$600 Payout

We will award 3 curriculums that demonstrates excellence in technical content creation.

Resources