location: North Africa (online)
host: African Youth Advisory Board on DRR (AYAB-DRR) – African Union
source-url: https://www.globalsouthopportunities.com/2026/07/25/hackathon-2/
apply-url: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=DQSIkWdsW0yxEjajBLZtrQAAAAAAAAAAAAN__7WEcHBURERTTFRQUURZNUpOVUxaT1BCWVJVVldQTC4u&route=shorturl
The AI for All Hackathon 2026 is an initiative by the African Youth Advisory Board on Disaster Risk Reduction, aiming to harness artificial intelligence for disaster risk reduction, climate challenges, and sustainable development. The programme is open to young innovators aged 18-35 from North Africa, with applications accepted until August 5, 2026. Over 100 participants will engage in a multi-phase innovation programme, including virtual boot camps, local innovation labs, and a regional hackathon.
Overview
The AI for All Hackathon is a multi-phase innovation programme that brings together young people with diverse backgrounds in technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, climate action, and disaster risk reduction. Participants will gain access to expert-led training, collaborative innovation labs, and regional showcase opportunities designed to transform creative ideas into impactful solutions.
- Virtual Boot Camp with technical and practical training on responsible AI, AI fundamentals, disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, and more
- Local Innovation Labs for collaborative problem-solving and prototype development
- Regional Hackathon and Demo Days for showcasing completed solutions
Eligibility
The programme is open to young innovators who meet specific requirements, including being between 18 and 35 years of age and being a citizen or resident of a North African country. Applicants must also demonstrate an interest in artificial intelligence, innovation, disaster risk reduction, climate action, entrepreneurship, and technology.
- Be between 18 and 35 years of age
- Be a citizen or resident of a North African country
- Be available to participate throughout all phases of the programme
- Demonstrate an interest in AI, innovation, disaster risk reduction, climate action, entrepreneurship, and technology
Funding & Benefits
- Access to expert-led training and collaborative innovation labs
- Mentorship from technical experts and facilitators
- Opportunities for networking, collaboration, and potential future partnerships
- Regional showcase opportunities for completed solutions
How to Apply
To apply for the AI for All Hackathon 2026, young innovators must submit their applications by August 5, 2026. The application process involves providing information on their background, interests, and motivations for participating in the programme.
- Submit application by August 5, 2026
- Provide information on background, interests, and motivations
- Be prepared to participate in all phases of the programme
Why This Matters
The AI for All Hackathon 2026 presents a unique opportunity for young innovators in North Africa to develop innovative, AI-powered solutions for disaster resilience and climate challenges. With a comprehensive programme structure and support from experienced facilitators and industry experts, participants can gain valuable skills and knowledge to transform creative ideas into impactful solutions. The programme's focus on multidisciplinary teamwork and responsible AI development also contributes to strengthening local capacity for addressing disaster resilience challenges through emerging technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age range for eligible applicants?
Eligible applicants must be between 18 and 35 years of age.
What is the deadline for applications?
Applications are accepted until August 5, 2026.
What are the key areas of focus for the AI for All Hackathon 2026?
The programme focuses on artificial intelligence, innovation, disaster risk reduction, climate action, entrepreneurship, and technology.
What support can participants expect during the programme?
Participants will receive expert-led training, mentorship from technical experts and facilitators, and opportunities for networking and collaboration.
How will the completed solutions be showcased?
Completed solutions will be showcased during the Regional Hackathon and Demo Days, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and potential future partnerships.
What are the eligibility criteria for the programme?
The programme is open to young innovators who are citizens or residents of a North African country, demonstrate an interest in the key areas of focus, and are available to participate throughout all phases of the programme.