A hackathon for financial literacy

In October, our Innovation team organized iA’s first ever hackathon. Actuaries, developers, UX specialists, IT analysts and accountants from Quebec City, Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver came together in person and online for an intense and collaborative weekend.

For the inaugural event, we chose the theme of financial literacy along with the organization Espace Finances, to which iA donated $3,000. This organization aims to help consumers and renters manage their personal finances and defend their rights. A great way to kill two birds with one stone, putting information in the hands of consumers and money in the hands of an important cause!

“The event was a huge success,” beams Audrey Thibodeau Poulin, Innovation Advisor at iA Financial Group and organizer of the hackathon. “Not only was the atmosphere positive and amicable all weekend but the teams also delivered on innovative tech solutions, displaying their incredible creativity and collaboration. There were twenty of us there who barely knew one another on Friday and who finished the weekend united and proud of each other.

“What’s more, Espace Finances mentioned on multiple occasions how pleased they were with the technological gift we gave them. The non-profit also added that it was the most listened to and understood they’ve ever felt. We were able to create such a special bond with them.”

“It was an enriching first experience for all, and we received many positive comments,” adds Benjamin Von Euw, Director, Innovation. “The participants were very thankful for the logistics we provided: access to the premises, infrastructure, paid expenses, promotion, communications, etc.”

The hackathon was such a success that the next iteration is already in the works for 2024.

Kudos to everyone involved on your great work!