TEKNOFEST is one of the largest events organizing Turkey's technology-focused competitions. The Tourism Technologies Competition, held within the scope of this event, is a project that aims to develop Turkey's cultural heritage and tourism potential using digital technologies. Organized within the framework of the National Technology Initiative, this competition aims to accelerate digital transformation in the tourism sector by utilizing technology. Participants are invited to offer innovative solutions in the fields of tourism and culture, particularly with software-oriented projects such as mobile software, web software, prototypes, educational games, and simulations.
Purpose of the Competition
The main objective of the Tourism Technologies Competition is to encourage the emergence of projects that will develop Turkey's cultural heritage, tourism potential, and culture and tourism activities using smart and innovative information technologies. The competition particularly aims to ensure technology integration for the purpose of promoting, learning about, and raising awareness of cultural assets. In line with this goal, projects are expected to support the promotion, accessibility, and digitalization of cultural values.
TEKNOFEST Tourism Technologies Competition (Photo: T3 Foundation)
Participation Requirements
Participation in the competition is open to all high school and university students studying in Turkey, as well as in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and abroad. Participants can be high school students, university students (including undergraduate, associate, master's, doctorate, and open education), or graduates.
Scope and Categories of the Competition
The competition includes various software-oriented projects. These projects include:
- Mobile Software: Applications developed for smartphones and tablets can be designed to meet various needs in the fields of tourism and culture.
- Web Software: Web-based projects can be used to promote cultural heritage, provide tourism information, or digitize the tourism experience.
- Prototypes: Innovative solutions for the tourism sector can be offered by developing physical devices or tools.
- Educational Games and Simulations: Digital games or simulations can be designed to teach values in the fields of culture and tourism in an educational manner.
Evaluation Process
The competition has a three-stage evaluation process:
1. Preliminary Evaluation Report: The initial evaluation of projects is carried out based on the preliminary reports and project ideas submitted by the competitors. This stage assesses the suitability of the basic elements of the projects.
2. Project Presentation and Video (Semi-Final): In the semi-final stage, competitors present their projects in more detail. They may also be asked to prepare short videos introducing their projects.
3. Prototype and Final Presentation: In the final stage, the prototypes and final presentations of the competitors' projects are evaluated. This stage is important for observing the feasibility and impact of the projects.
TEKNOFEST Tourism Technologies Competition (Photo: T3 Foundation)
Contributions of the Competition
The TEKNOFEST Tourism Technologies Competition offers participants several opportunities. Students and professionals participating in the competition aim to contribute to the culture and tourism sector both locally and internationally by developing creative projects. In line with Turkey's National Technology Initiative vision, the competition aims to advance Turkey's cultural heritage and tourism potential.
The TEKNOFEST Tourism Technologies Competition supports projects that will enable Turkey's cultural richness and tourism potential to be utilized more efficiently with technology. This competition aims to help younger generations develop their abilities to solve problems in the culture and tourism sector using digital technologies, while also increasing the country's cultural and tourist appeal on a global scale.
