CLAP@JC x Generation Hackathon
Retail Tech in the AI Era

Empowering the Future: Youth Innovate Retail Tech at AI Era
CLAP@JC, in collaboration with Generation Hong Kong, recently organized a Hackathon themed “Retail Tech in the AI Era” to bring together a dynamic group of youth aged 18-29 with a shared passion about reshaping the retail landscape through the power of artificial intelligence (AI).
The event was anchored by three key objectives:
- Equipping youth with foundational knowledge and skills of AI and tech: Participants gained essential knowledge and skills in retail technology, emphasizing the transformative impact of AI on the industry. Through engaging workshops and expert-led sessions, attendees gained insights into the latest AI advancements and their applications in retail.
- Enhancing Job Readiness: Recognizing the importance of preparing youth for the future job market, the Hackathon focused on enhancing participants’ capacities and job readiness. Mentorship sessions and hands-on activities empowered attendees to develop practical skills and build confidence in navigating the evolving job landscape.
- Fostering Innovation and Problem-Solving: The Hackathon provided a unique learning experience, enabling participants to tackle real-world challenges. Individual participants teamed up and collaborated to develop innovative proposals aimed at addressing industry issues, culminating in presentations that showcased their creative solutions.
Throughout the event, participants had the opportunity to network with industry professionals, exchange ideas, and receive valuable feedback on their projects. The energy and enthusiasm of the youth were palpable, as they embraced the chance to learn, grow, and contribute to the future of retail technology.
The CLAP@JC x Generation Hackathon not only equipped youth with vital skills but also inspired a sense of purpose and possibility. By cultivating a collaborative and supportive environment, the event highlighted the potential of young minds to drive meaningful change in the retail sector through AI.

ACTIVITIES
November – December 2024: Taster Workshops
A series of taster workshops provided participants with the opportunity to explore new AI technologies, and tools related to data and digital marketing.
Topics of Taster Workshops:
- Career Paths in the Retail Tech Industry
- The Role of AI in Customer Experience
- Building a Successful Business Model
- Trends in Retail Tech
December 2024: Industry Sharing Sessions
In a series of industry sharing sessions, experts from different segments shared their insights, which equipped participants with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive retail tech landscape.
Topics of Industry Sharing Sessions:
- Customer Service with Empathy
- Digital Marketing Strategies
- Computational Thinking
- AI Project Management
- Data Utilization
January 5, 2025: Hackathon Kick-off Workshop
Teams formed to develop innovative retail technology solutions. At the January 5 kick-off workshop, industry mentors provided hands-on guidance to help teams refine their concepts.
5 key problem statements:
- Digital-First Customer Service
- Smart Retail Operations & Automation
- Next-Gen Digital Marketing & Social Commerce
- Sustainable & Inclusive Retail
- Future Store Experience
Feedback from mentors
January 11, 2025: Hackathon
The Hackathon concluded on January 11 with the final competition, showcasing how innovative thinking and diverse abilities can shape the future.
Participants demonstrated impressive creativity, technical expertise, and teamwork, all of which contributed to the development of groundbreaking solutions that address real-world challenges.
The Hackathon not only highlighted the immense potential of collaborative efforts but also inspired everyone involved to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Congratulations to the winning teams.

Champion:
Stylist AI – Virtual fitting solution

First Runner-up:
Ugly Intelligence – FooDate, an app to combat food waste

Second Runner-up & CLAP for VASK Award:
AICS:101 – Digital-first customer service

Most Innovative Award:
ECSNAP – Digital rental & consignment platform
FEEDBACK FROM FINAL ROUND JUDGES

Hayly Leung
Member, CLAP@JC Advisory Committee

Brian Cheng
Director (Business), CLAP@JC
Chief Executive Officer, Generation Hong Kong

Desmond Cheung
Sr Business Development Manager, DNB
Amazon Web Services HK

Peter Lee
Head of Commercial Business, Microsoft Hong Kong

Manlee Chan
SVP IT Asia, PVH Asia Limited