VISION Makeathon

Your day. Your creativity. Your ideas for the future of image processing.

A Makeathon (combining ‘to make’ and ‘marathon’) is a challenge event for everyone who prefers to take action rather than just talk. As part of VISION 2026, the world’s leading trade fair for image processing will become a stage for innovators with big visions – in a dedicated area right at the heart of the exhibition.

Working in interdisciplinary teams, you’ll tackle a practical challenge on the topic of image processing within a single day of the fair, engaging with VISION’s topics of the future such as artificial intelligence, embedded vision, 3D imaging or hyperspectral imaging. You will be supported by prominent VISION exhibitors and our Makeathon experts from ITQ. What counts most is your creativity, your team spirit and your ability to get things done.

What to expect at the VISION MAKEATHON

  • 1 day of full speed ahead
    From the initial idea to the first working prototype – focused, intensive, and showcased at VISION 2026.

  • Interdisciplinary teams
    Developers, data scientists, students, start-ups, system integrators, AI and Vision experts – this is where diverse skills and perspectives come together.

  • Challenges from the world of image processing

    Tasks centred on the following two application areas:

    o Circular economy / recycling

    o Smart farming

  • Mentoring & expert input
    Industry experts will provide you with technical and strategic support – directly on the project.

  • Final pitches in the special area
    At the end of the exhibition day, you will present your results live to trade visitors and exhibitors at VISION.

Who is the VISION MAKEATHON for?

  • Students and young talents from the fields of image processing, computer vision, computer science, electrical and information technology, mechanical engineering/mechatronics, optical technologies, data science or physics.
  • Groups from colleges and universities
  • Teams with ideas in the field of computer vision / machine vision
  • Anyone who wants to play an active role in shaping the future of image processing

In short: For anyone who takes BE VISIONARY literally and wants to put vision technologies into practice.

Why you should participate:

  • Your solution in the spotlight at VISION 2026 – right at the heart of the world’s leading trade fair for image processing
  • Direct access to companies, experts, potential employers and partners
  • Hands-on work on real challenges from the world of image processing
  • A unique trade fair experience in a dedicated area – including a stage for your pitch

Think, develop, experiment – and feel free to be a bit crazy – and turn your ideas into smart vision solutions: that’s the VISION MAKEATHON. This is your chance.

Are you up for the challenge?
Are you ready to show what you and your team are capable of on one day at the trade fair?

Register now for the VISION MAKEATHON 2026

Any questions? The project team is happy to help:

Florian Niethammer
Head of Trade Fairs & Events

T:+49 711 18560-2541
florian.niethammer(at)messe-stuttgart.de


With the support of

Participating project companies