Innovate North 2.0 Hackathon – Call for Applications
Innovate North 2.0 Hackathon – Call for Applications
The Innovate North Hackathon (Hack for Progress) is a transformative initiative designed to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in Northern Nigeria through innovative, tech-enabled solutions. Hosted in Kano, this hackathon brings together young innovators, technologists, and community leaders to collaborate, build impactful ideas, and drive sustainable development across the region.
The program offers participants a unique platform to showcase their ideas, receive expert mentorship, and potentially access incubation opportunities that can transform early-stage concepts into scalable ventures. By encouraging creativity and entrepreneurship, the hackathon contributes to economic growth and job creation in Northern Nigeria.
🌍 Hackathon Focus Sectors
Participants are expected to develop solutions in one of the following areas:
- Agriculture
- Creative Fashion
- Digital Trade
- Circular Economy
- Education
- GovTech
- Climate Tech
🧩 Solution Requirements
- Solutions must demonstrate clear product thinking and traction
- Can be tech-based or non-tech-enabled
- Should be at concept, prototype, or early development stage
👥 Eligibility Criteria
- Must reside in Northern Nigeria
- Open to individuals or teams (maximum of 5 members)
- Participants must be between 18–35 years old
- Teams with diverse skill sets are strongly encouraged
- Projects must align with at least one of the listed sectors
🗓️ Timeline
- Application Period: 13 April – 30 April 2026
- Selection & Notification: 5 May 2026
- Policy Dialogue: 15 June 2026
- Hackathon Event: 16th – 18th June 2026
📍 Location: Kano, Nigeria
🏆 Judging Criteria
- Practicality: Does the solution effectively address a real problem?
- Sustainability: Can the solution be maintained and scaled?
- Accessibility: Is it inclusive and impactful for vulnerable populations?
- Originality: Is the idea innovative and unique?
📩 Application Link
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeM8xbz4ll8gC_77OBC8ZDOv9I1Mb2O_lI_NCgZTkBJaspR0Q/viewform
Shortlisted teams will be contacted with further details regarding participation. This is an excellent opportunity for young innovators in Northern Nigeria to turn ideas into real-world solutions and connect with a network of changemakers.
