The Challenge 

In ensuring the hackathon goals are met, Squadco needed to:

• Ensure the event attracted a significant number of qualified participants within a limited promotional window.
• Ensuring participants possessed the necessary technical skills (coding, UI/UX, data science) and a keen interest in fintech.
• Building a participant pool that reflected a range of backgrounds and perspectives.
• Generating sufficient buzz to attract top talent and engagement within relevant tech communities.
• Creating and managing a frictionless registration process and communication process with participants,
• Ensuring a high level of engagement and innovation throughout the hackathon.

Without the right recruitment strategy, Squadco risked low turnout and a lack of high-impact ideas during the hackathon.

The Solution - Recruiting for Innovation Through Propel Community Networks

Propel partnered with SquadCo as an embedded recruitment and engagement partner, using its Community-as-a-Service (CaaS) model to deliver a focused, community-led approach. We did this by:

• Activating and utilising Propel’s pre-existing networks of tech communities across Nigeria to reach the ideal participant demographic. 
• Implementing clear diversity parameters to ensure representation across gender, geography, experience level and skillsets, to foster a well-rounded innovation ecosystem.
• Implementing a streamlined sign-up flow that minimised friction and maximised conversions.
• Designing pre-hackathon engagement tactics in and community touchpoints that kept participants informed, excited, collaborative, and reduced drop-offs throughout the event.

Working Model

The engagement was collaborative and continuous. Propel worked alongside SquadCo’s team to align on participant profiles, messaging, and timelines, while handling community activation, outreach, and early-stage participant management. This allowed SquadCo to focus on challenge design and event delivery, with confidence in the quality of the incoming cohort.

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Looking to Build a High-Quality Participant Pipeline?

If you are planning a hackathon, challenge, or innovation programme, Propel can help you reach and mobilise the right audience and communities. Our Community-as-a-Service offerings connect you with engaged, relevant participants and support the full journey from sourcing to sustained engagement.

Schedule a call to explore the available opportunities for your business.