Madeira Friends host their second hackathon — Year 2023
Madeira Friends hosted their second hackathon which took place at the Sangha Cowork Funchal on 19, 20, and 21 May 2023. In 2022, they focused on no-code tools but this time they took it to the next level, as they brought Artificial Intelligence into the equation. They focused on** bureaucracy, safety, **and international experience opportunities.
Both internationals and locals joined, around 20 participants and delivered really good outputs, from an AI chatbot called “Senhor João” that can help one navigate through bureaucratic processes like answering tax questions, to helping collect your travel residency subsidy, to building the first framework of the Madeira Friends app. The objective of this event was to promote** teamwork** between the international and local community, skills sharing, integration, networking, and innovative “think tanks.”
Context of Digitalization in Madeira
Madeira is currently undergoing a significant digital transition, and Digital Nomads have taken notice of the Regional Government’s clear focus in this area. Over the past year, they’ve heard Regional President Miguel Albuquerque speak repeatedly about the importance of digitalization, positioning it as one of Madeira’s greatest opportunities for the future. Nomads also observe that this commitment extends beyond the President himself — they’ve seen a growing number of events, programs, and increased support and funding dedicated to driving the island’s digital transformation.
As many have already mentioned, the digital nomads project initiated by the government was pivotal and extremely successful. The pandemic brought the need for a global digital change and Madeira was at the forefront in this regard. Working from here, they recognized the potential that Madeira has at an international level and day by day their affection for the island grows as their second home. Thus, born during the digital nomad movement on the island, the social project Madeira Friends was created with the mission of establishing a bridge of integration and sharing between the internationals and the** locals.**
They embrace a “Give to Madeira” mindset that sets them apart from ordinary tourists. They arrive not just to enjoy the island, but to actively contribute to the local community **— sharing their digital expertise and participating in local initiatives that drive the region’s digital transformation. This collaborative approach demonstrates the significant value of the digital skills and **knowledge **they bring, underscoring a positive partnership between international talent and local development efforts.