The applications are now open for the World Bank Small AI Hackathon 2026. Young innovators interested in Artificial Intelligence, technology, agriculture, healthcare, or tourism can apply for the Small AI for Development Hackathon Challenge 2026, organized by the World Bank Group and partners. The program invites participants aged 18–35 to develop practical AI solutions that can work in environments with limited connectivity and resources. Participants can compete individually or in teams of up to four members. Winners will be invited to Seoul, South Korea, from 3–4 October 2026. The World Bank will cover all costs, including airfare, accommodation, meals, and visa support.
Quick Overview
- Opportunity: Small AI for Development Hackathon 2026
- Organized by: World Bank Group and Partners
- Hackathon Dates: 3–4 October 2026
- Location for Winners: Seoul, South Korea
- Deadline: 26 September 2026
Fully Funded Trip to Seoul
The winners will be invited to Seoul, South Korea, to participate in the Global AI & Digital Summit 2026.
About the World Bank Small AI Hackathon
The Small AI for Development Hackathon focuses on creating AI solutions that can work in environments where internet connectivity, computing resources, smartphones, and digital infrastructure may be limited.
Instead of building large general-purpose AI systems, participants are encouraged to create focused and practical AI solutions designed around a specific problem.
Solutions may involve technologies such as:
- AI models running locally
- SMS and voice-based tools
- Sensors
- Microcontrollers
- Predictive AI
- Generative AI
- AI agents
The competition encourages young innovators to consider how AI can be made more accessible and useful in developing economies
Challenge Categories
Participants must select one of the following sectors:
- Health: Develop a Small AI solution that addresses a specific healthcare or health-related development challenge.
- Agriculture: Build an AI-powered solution that addresses a practical agricultural challenge and can demonstrate measurable value.
- Tourism: Create a practical AI solution designed to address a challenge within the tourism sector.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be 18 to 35 years old at the time of application.
- Be from a World Bank member country.
- Apply individually or as a team of up to 4 members.
- Submit your application and competition entry in English.
- Participate in only one competition entry.
- Ensure all team members register individually.
- Meet all eligibility requirements before participating.
- Applicants from emerging economies are particularly encouraged to apply
What Winners Will Receive
A total of 3 winners will be selected:
- 1 winner from Health
- 1 winner from Agriculture
- 1 winner from Tourism
How to Apply for the World Bank Small AI Hackathon 2026?
Eligible applicants must register through the official Hack-Nation application page before 26 September 2026. The official website link is below.
APPLY NOW FOR THE WORLD BANK SMALL HACKATHON
