Deadline: September 7, 2025
The #HackTheDivide Competition 2025 is now open for applications, offering young African innovators an exciting opportunity to co-create digital solutions that address pressing issues of employment, inclusion, and mobility across the continent. This hackathon will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, on October 7–8, 2025, bringing together brilliant minds from across Africa to design impactful solutions while receiving world-class mentorship and incubation support.
About #HackTheDivide Competition 2025
The #HackTheDivide Competition 2025 is a two-day hackathon designed to empower young innovators through collaboration, mentorship, and exposure to international opportunities. It is organised by:
- The International Training Centre of the International Labour Organization (ITCILO)
- The International Labour Organization (ILO)
- The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI)
- The African Union Commission (Department of Education, Science, Technology & Innovation)
This initiative is part of a wider effort to support youth employment and digital inclusion in Africa, with participants developing local solutions that will be showcased internationally.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to young digital innovators aged 18–35 from 25 African countries. If you are passionate about technology, social impact, and digital inclusion, this is your chance to shine.
What to Expect
- Hackathon Format: A two-day intensive event in Nairobi with teams working on digital solutions addressing youth employment, digital inclusion, and labour mobility.
- Mentorship: Participants will be guided by expert mentors to refine and present their solutions.
- Global Exposure: Final presentations will be streamed internationally during the “Skills for Fair Digital Transitions in Africa” event in Turin, Italy.
Benefits of Participation
Selected participants will enjoy extensive support:
- All Expenses Covered: Meals, accommodation, and travel costs are fully provided for those chosen to attend.
- Prize for the Winning Team: A tailored incubation journey with I3P, Italy’s leading tech incubator, including a fully funded trip to Italy and access to its innovation ecosystem.
- Networking & Visibility: Engage with innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond.
Why Join?
This is more than just a competition—it is a launchpad for Africa’s brightest young innovators. By participating in the #HackTheDivide Competition 2025, you gain the chance to develop real-world solutions, grow your skills with expert guidance, and access international platforms that can accelerate your innovation journey.
Application Details
- Deadline: Applications are currently open—apply early to secure your spot.
- Cost: Free of charge.
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme here
💡 Need help preparing your application? Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to boost your chances of success.
