In the framework of the European project POST – Polycentric Sustainable Tourism, funded by the Interreg Atlantic Area programme, PETR Ouest Charente – Pays du Cognac has organised a new collaborative innovation experience in Cognac (France): the Fleuve Hackathon. People from different backgrounds will come together to develop an innovative and sustainable tourism product around the Charente river aimed at families and the general public.

A day of collective intelligence to promote sustainable tourism

The transformation of the tourism sector requires new responses to the social, environmental and climatic challenges of today. This is why the Fleuve Hackathon is presented as a space for interdisciplinary collaboration where students, entrepreneurs, designers, developers, tourism and sustainability professionals, job seekers, cultural actors, etc. can work together to design innovative and sustainable tourism products, adapted to the context of the Charente.

During a full day of work on 9 October at the Hôtel l’Yeuse in Châteaubernard, the participating teams will tackle the challenge of creating family-oriented proposals with sustainability and climate resilience criteria. The day will include a morning video presentation session to frame the territorial context, as well as a one-day face-to-face hackathon with mentoring by experts from the sector, which aims to accompany the conceptualisation and development of the projects and ideas put forward by the different working teams. They will reflect on the use of these projects, all based on tourism data linked to the Cognac region and coaches who are experts in their field.

This hackathon aims to revalue the potential of the river through projects that foster a respectful relationship with the environment, strengthen local economies and promote a more balanced tourism model. Participants can win prizes for the best solutions, networking opportunities with key players in the sector, visibility with investors and institutions and a positive impact on sustainable tourism.

In line with the values of the POST project, the Fleuve Hackathon is committed to a polycentric approach to tourism, i.e. a more equitable redistribution of tourist flows to relieve pressure on the busiest destinations and boost inland areas with a strong territorial identity.

This hackathon is part of the pilot actions of the POST project, which promotes a common strategy for the sustainability of tourism in the Atlantic Area. Together with the experiences underway in Spain, Portugal and Ireland, the event in Cognac will contribute to developing more equitable and sustainable tourism models in peripheral regions of the European Atlantic area.

Participation

Anyone with an interest in contributing to the future of tourism can join. Previous experience in hackathons is not necessary: fresh ideas, diversity of approaches and willingness to collaborate are valued.

The event will offer support, mentoring and tools to facilitate the creative process and ensure an enriching experience for all participants.

Event date: 9 October 2025

Venue: Hôtel l’Yeuse, Châteaubernard (Charente, France)

More information and registration at:  https://www.petrouestcharentecognac.fr/fleuve-hackathon-2025