- Imagine spending three days in Tamale with a team, a laptop, and a real challenge set by an employer, and walking away with mentors, new skills, and possibly an internship.
- That is what the Northern Ghana Innovation Hackathon 2026 offers, and applications are now open
What is the hackathon?
The hackathon is organised by the University for Development Studies (UDS) School of Business with UNCDF, under the EU–Ghana Pact for Skills. It is funded by the European Union and implemented by UNCDF in partnership with UDS.
Participants will spend three days working in teams on real problems set by employers. It is free to attend, and you can apply on your own or with a team.
Key dates
- Applications: 26 October – 16 November 2026
- Hackathon: 3–5 December 2026
- Venue: UDS Campus, Tamale
Choose your track
Applicants pick one of three tracks, each tied to a major opportunity in the region:
- Digital Finance and Inclusive Markets: tools and ideas that bring more people into the financial system.
- Climate-Smart Agriculture and Food Systems: solutions that help farmers and food producers adapt to a changing climate.
- Circular Economy and Clean Energy: ways to reduce waste, reuse resources, and expand access to clean power.
What participants get
The organisers are removing the usual barriers to taking part:
- Travel, accommodation, and meals are paid for.
- A free online skills bootcamp to prepare you.
- Mentoring from employers during the event.
- Internships, placements, and incubation for top teams.
For many students, the last point may matter most. A strong idea can turn into a career opportunity or the start of a venture.
Who can apply?
- All students at accredited tertiary institutions in Ghana
- Individuals or teams
- Teams should have at least 40% female members
- Priority goes to applicants from the five northern regions
The 40% requirement reflects a push to make sure women are at the centre of the region’s innovation future.
Why it matters
Hackathons are often seen as purely technical events, but this one is built around real-world problems from employers. Students get a chance to show what they can do, and employers get a look at emerging talent. With mentoring and incubation on offer, good ideas have a path beyond the three days.
How to apply
Apply before 16 November 2026 using the online form at https://forms.gle/iwQx2TY2FEP2Wn1d7, or scan the QR code on the official flyer.
If you are a student with an idea, a team looking for a challenge, or someone who wants to help solve problems in Northern Ghana, this is worth applying for. The deadline is close, so don’t wait.
