Hüppelaud - Estonia

Hüppelaud is an Estonian technology and entrepreneurship programme that helps young people develop practical digital, technical and entrepreneurial skills through an intensive, hands-on learning experience. Launched in 2017, the programme brings together participants aged around 14–19, and supports them in transforming an initial idea into a working prototype within a few days. 

Over the duration of the programme, young people can share ideas, form teams and test their knowledge building a working prototype of an idea - with the support of mentors. 

About this initiative

At the heart of the Hüppelaud is empowering idea-creation and offering a chance for youngsters to work in teams on turning this idea into an actual, working prototype. This type of learning develops both digital skills and collaborative, creative, self-expression and problem-solving skills at the same time. Facilitated workshops by members of the Estonian technical and start-up community introduce learners to design programming, Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, prototyping and entrepreneurship. No previous technology or programming experience is required to take part.  In this way, young people can try out technology and entrepreneurship in a safe and supportive environment.

Over time, Hüppelaud has developed into a broader learning community, with former participants returning as mentors and supporting new cohorts. The programme has been delivered in several locations across Estonia and through different formats, including summer, spring, winter and online editions. Its combination of practical digital skills development, entrepreneurship, mentoring and project-based learning provides a model that can be adapted by schools, youth organisations and other education providers seeking to strengthen young people's engagement with technology and digital careers.

Why is this a good practice?

Over 10 years, the programme series has involved around 700 young people and 200 mentors, expanding beyond its original summer-school format to include spring, winter and online editions. Its impact also extends beyond participation: according to Hüppelaud’s Alumni Survey, 65% of former participants continued their studies in IT, STEM or business-related fields, 55% work or have worked in a technical occupation, and 34% have gone on to establish their own company. 

The programme attracts growing engagement and interest: in 2026, 58 young people formed 14 teams, with more than half developing physical products, while 45% of participants were girls, the programme’s highest share to date. Young people were supported by 13 mentors from industry and science. Participant feedback also points to the effectiveness of its hands-on methodology: the 2026 edition received an average rating of 9.4 out of 10, while 90% of participants highlighted the opportunity to turn an idea into a working prototype as one of the most valuable aspects of the experience. The involvement of former participants as mentors and organisers further demonstrates the programme’s sustainability and its potential to build a continuing community around digital skills, technology and entrepreneurship.