Hackathon dates: August 1 – 17, 2025
In this hackathon, you will use IBM watsonx to build a proof-of-concept solution to align with one out of two possible themes:
Build with agentic AI challenge
Use IBM watsonx to develop a working proof-of concept that applies agentic AI to solve a real-world, everyday problem. Identify a high-impact task or workflow and design an innovative solution featuring AI agents.
Sustainable cities and communities challenge, brought to you by Call for Code
We’re calling on you to build an innovative proof-of-concept for how agentic AI using IBM watsonx can be put to work to address an issue that falls under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Call for Code®
Started in 2018, Call for Code is the largest tech-for-good initiative of its kind that brings together developers and problem-solvers from around the world to create solutions to help solve some of the most pressing societal issues of our time.
Step 1: Register
Sign up with your existing IBMid that uses your corporate or university email address or create one with your personal email to get access to the hackathon web site.
Step 2: Get ready ahead of the hackathon
Take advantage of free watsonx education on the hackathon web site. You can also post your skills and get matched with other participants through the site to form a team. As the hackathon approaches, watch your email for critical updates and information. Access to the necessary watsonx accounts will be provided by IBM when the hackathon starts on August 1.
Step 3: Build with IBM watsonx and win prizes
When the hackathon starts, you’ll get detailed instructions to build and submit your project for a chance to win cash and a trip to the IBM TechXchange 2025 conference! Those who submit a qualifying project may also be eligible to earn a badge from IBM TechXchange 2025.
- During the hackathon, team up with peers and pick from 2 theme options: “Build with agentic AI challenge” or “Sustainable cities and communities challenge, brought to you by Call for Code®.”
- The top team in each theme can win $5,000 USD and a trip to the IBM TechXchange 2025 conference* October 6-9 in Orlando, where they’ll get to show off their winning solution and network with developers from around the world. There are also chances to win additional prizes like IBM Cloud credits and Apple AirPods Pros®.
- Gain experience innovating and solving real-world problems using generative AI.
- Take advantage of free watsonx education, available prior to the hackathon, and grow your skills.
Learn more here: https://developer.ibm.com/events/ibm-techxchange-2025-pre-conference-watsonx-hackathon/
Open Mainframe Project will also be at the IBM TechXchange conference on Monday, October 6 as part of Community Day! If you’re interested in attending or speaking at the event, click here to submit your speaking proposal.
