In an era where technology intersects with humanitarian efforts, the 2025 Call for Code initiative invites developers to harness AI in addressing pressing social challenges. Launched by David Clark Cause in partnership with IBM, United Nations Human Rights, and the Linux Foundation, this year’s competition focuses on creating innovative solutions that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Call for Code is a unique global tech initiative that inspires and empowers developers and problem-solvers from around the world to use their talent to innovate for social good,” said David Clark, Founder and CEO of Call for Code. This initiative has consistently motivated developers since its inception in 2018 to tackle some of the world’s most significant issues through technology.
This year, participants can join five qualifying hackathons designed to encourage the development of original proof-of-concept solutions utilizing IBM’s watsonx and cloud services. Each hackathon will center around a different SDG, allowing small business owners and entrepreneurs to tap into the potential of AI technology and apply it to real-world issues.
The first hackathon, running from March 20 through March 31, focuses on SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Participants have the opportunity to create an AI virtual agent to address water-related challenges—an initiative that drives down to the roots of community sustainability. Following this, the program will host a hackathon for SDG 13: Climate Action in conjunction with the upcoming Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Summit. This summit is noted for being one of the largest human rights-based climate forums globally, involving collaboration from reputable institutions such as the University of Oxford.
“The resources provided through Call for Code, particularly no-cost access to enterprise-grade IBM software, give developers a unique opportunity to explore AI tools they might not otherwise access,” noted Dinesh Nirmal, Senior Vice President at IBM Software. The exposure to cutting-edge technology can boost the capabilities of small teams, enabling them to create impactful solutions that could resonate within their local communities and beyond.
Participants can compete for multiple prizes, including $5,000 for winners of each hackathon and a chance to advance to the grand prize competition, which awards $50,000 to the best solution. Furthermore, successful teams may receive open-source project support from the Linux Foundation, promoting a collaborative environment for maintaining sustainability beyond the competition.
However, small business owners should consider certain challenges. Engaging in hackathons requires not only technical skill but also a clear understanding of the SDGs to develop relevant, actionable solutions. Additionally, the time investment needed to participate might compete with the daily demands of running a business. Yet, the benefits—such as networking with a community of like-minded individuals, developing team skills, and potentially generating solutions that can drive a business forward—offer compelling reasons to participate.
Still, navigating the competitive landscape can be daunting for those new to hackathons. Businesses might need to assess whether they have the resources and time to engage fully and form successful teams. However, for those who lean into these challenges, the potential for innovation and the opportunity to champion social good through technology is significant.
Interested developers and teams can register for the upcoming hackathon until March 18, 2025, buoyed by the excitement surrounding the promise of AI in service of humanity. Further details on all qualifying hackathons for the year will be updated on the Call for Code website as they occur.
By joining in, entrepreneurs can not only contribute to meaningful causes but also expand their own business horizons through the transformative applications of AI in addressing global issues. Those looking to build community connections and innovate within their skill sets have much to gain from this initiative.
For more information on the 2025 Call for Code initiative, please visit the original post at https://newsroom.ibm.com/2025-03-05-2025-call-for-code-engages-developers-to-build-ai-solutions-that-address-social-and-humanitarian-issues.
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