Over the last few years, RST-TTO, as an organisation that supports the development of innovation and space technology transfer in sectors such as monitoring and prevention of natural disasters, defence and security, has organised and conducted four international hackathons and two competitions for innovative ideas. Hackathon organisation provides a broad basis for the selection of new innovative ideas in the field of Critical Digital Competencies and is a prerequisite for the creation of start-up and spin-on/off companies. The purpose of this article is to analyse and summarise the experience gained and to propose initiatives to systematise the use of hackathons as an important first step in building digital competence and entrepreneurial skills.