The Call for Code initiative is back for its eighth year, inviting developers to join hackathons focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Kicking off with a competition from March 20 to 31, 2025, participants will create AI solutions using IBM’s watsonx technology, particularly addressing clean water and sanitation. Throughout the year, there will be five qualifying hackathons, each centered on different SDGs, with opportunities to win prizes, including a grand prize of $50,000. This initiative, supported by IBM and UN Human Rights, encourages innovation for social good, empowering developers to make a positive impact on humanitarian issues worldwide. Interested teams can register by March 18, 2025, to join the first event.
In its eighth year, Call for Code is back with a mission to tackle global challenges through innovative solutions. The program kicked off on March 5, 2025, announcing a series of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-focused hackathons throughout the year. This exciting initiative invites developers to create AI-driven projects that address pressing social and humanitarian issues.
The Call for Code program, launched in 2018 by the David Clark Cause and IBM, aims to mobilize the global developer community. This year, teams will have the chance to participate in five qualifying hackathon events. Each event will focus on a different SDG, challenging participants to leverage technologies like Watsonx and IBM Cloud services.
The first hackathon takes place from March 20 to 31, 2025, in honor of UN World Water Day on March 22. Participants are encouraged to build AI virtual agents to tackle SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Additionally, later in the year, a hackathon focused on SDG 13: Climate Action will coincide with the Global Climate Summit, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions in climate justice.
David Clark, Founder and CEO of Call for Code, emphasized the initiative’s role in sparking innovation for social good. “Call for Code inspires developers to innovate using technology to serve humanity,” he said. Participants will have free access to IBM’s leading software tools and resources to help them build their solutions.
Teams of one to five developers can compete for cash prizes at each hackathon, with winners receiving $5,000 and a chance to attend the IBM TechXchange Conference in Orlando. The standout projects may also advance to compete for global rewards, including a top prize of $50,000. This is an excellent opportunity for developers to gain hands-on experience with artificial intelligence and network with like-minded individuals.
Developers interested in making a difference can register for the first hackathon by March 18, 2025. For more information about the Call for Code program and upcoming hackathons, visit the Call for Code website.
The Call for Code Global Challenge continues to unite technology and social impact, offering a platform for creators to turn their ideas into life-changing solutions.
Tags: Call for Code, hackathon, AI solutions, Sustainable Development Goals, IBM, social good, global challenge, UN World Water Day, Clean Water and Sanitation.
What is the 2025 Call for Code?
The 2025 Call for Code is a challenge for developers to create AI solutions that help solve social and humanitarian issues. It’s a way to use technology to make the world better.
Who can participate in the Call for Code?
Anyone can join! Whether you are a student, a professional developer, or someone who loves to code, you can take part and share your ideas.
What kind of projects are encouraged?
Projects that use artificial intelligence to address social problems like disaster relief, healthcare, or environmental issues are encouraged. The goal is to create solutions that can help communities in need.
How can I submit my project?
You can submit your project through the official Call for Code website. Make sure to follow the guidelines and deadlines provided there for a successful submission.
What is the benefit of participating?
Participants have the chance to showcase their skills, win prizes, and get support to develop their projects further. Plus, you get to contribute to meaningful solutions that can really help people.