Caius: From Hackathon Idea to Rural Digitisation Startup
From Hackathon to Incorporation
The idea behind Caius was born at the 3rd CASSINI Hackathon: (Re)Visit Europe, held in Athens, Greece, from 12-14 May 2022, where the team won both on a national and pan-European level.
Following the hackathon, the founding members incorporated Caius in August 2022. They were later joined by additional researchers, creating an interdisciplinary team with expertise in forestry, rural development, and digital social innovation. The hackathon also served as their entry point into key networks: Caius connected with the ESA BIC Greece Incubation Program and Startab entrepreneurship program, both instrumental in their growth.
“The CASSINI Hackathon is one of the few early-stage competitions with the power to change your life… make the most of it!” - Giorgos Mendrinos, Caius Founder.
Technology Development
What started as a concept became a first-of-its-kind product: an AI-based mapping system that automatically identifies road and trail networks. Caius trained its neural networks using Galileo trail data and Copernicus imagery, proving the central role of EU space technologies in their innovation.
The company’s breakthrough technology led to several contracts, including a project with the Region of Epirus to map uncharted forest trails and integrate them into tourism strategies. These projects laid the groundwork for Druiter, their consumer-facing app launched in 2025, now positioned as the company’s flagship product.
Awards and Recognitions
Caius has already received recognition from Forbes 30 Under 30 Greece, the Global Startup Awards, the Greek Ministry of Environment, and the Cassini Ideas Track Challenge. The company is also a participant in the CASSINI Business Accelerator, positioning it for further growth across the Mediterranean market.
Looking Ahead
Caius is now focused on expanding Druiter and establishing it as the go-to platform for rural excursions across the Mediterranean. Beyond expanding the product, the team is also preparing for market scale-up, international partnerships, and further integration of space-based technologies into rural infrastructure planning.
“Cassini Hackathon was a miniature version of what would later follow as a company, providing us with invaluable practical experience.” - Giorgos Mendrinos, Caius Founder.
Visit Caius to learn more.
Visit the CASSINI Initiative to learn more.
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