The Call for Code Global Challenge 2024 is the world’s largest and most ambitious open-source tech competition aimed at solving the planet’s most pressing societal issues through innovation. Powered by IBM, in partnership with the Linux Foundation, United Nations Human Rights Office, and other global partners, this challenge brings together developers, students, startups, and problem-solvers to create sustainable, scalable solutions using advanced technologies.
The 2024 theme focuses on climate change adaptation and sustainability, targeting critical areas such as water sustainability, energy efficiency, disaster preparedness, and food security. With the climate crisis intensifying across the globe, the need for real-world, tech-based solutions has never been more urgent—and Call for Code is a rallying cry for developers everywhere to answer that call.
Whether you’re building an AI model that monitors natural disasters, a blockchain-based food supply system, or a cloud-native energy tracking platform, this challenge invites you to innovate for impact, collaborate globally, and scale your solution into real-world deployment.
The Call for Code Global Challenge 2024 is more than just a tech competition—it’s a call to action for those who believe that code can save lives and heal the planet. Whether you’re an experienced software engineer or a passionate university student, this is your opportunity to join a global movement, tackle one of the greatest challenges of our time, and turn your ideas into scalable solutions.
Nigerian innovators have consistently shown talent and creativity on the global stage, and this platform is an excellent opportunity to showcase that brilliance. Past African teams have been finalists and winners, tackling issues like flood management, desertification, and food waste using AI and IoT.
Name of Organizer
Requirement/Eligibility
The Call for Code Global Challenge 2024 is open to a broad and inclusive audience across the globe. The eligibility requirements are designed to bring together diverse skills, ideas, and cultural perspectives
Who Can Participate
- Developers (professional and student level
- Designers
- Data Scientists
- Entrepreneurs
- Technologists
- Social Impact Advocates
- Students in STEM or related fields
Participants may compete as individuals or in teams of up to five people.
Age & Geographic Restrictions
No nationality restrictions: Open to participants from all countries, including Nigeria and other African nations.
Must be 18 years or older (or the legal age of majority in your country).
Project Requirements
Solutions must address one or more climate change challenges: sustainability, food security, clean water, green energy, or disaster resilience.
All submissions must be new, original work—not previously submitted to Call for Code or other competitions.
Solutions must leverage at least one IBM technology or platform, such as:
- IBM Cloud
- IBM Watson AI
- IBM Blockchain
- IBM Weather APIs
- Red Hat OpenShift
Projects must be submitted via the official Call for Code Global Challenge platform with source code hosted on GitHub.
Submissions should include:
- A written description
- A demonstration video (2–3 minutes)
- Architecture diagram
- Public GitHub repository link
Collaboration Tools
Participants have access to free IBM tools, tutorials, cloud credits, and technical mentorship throughout the competition.
Prizes
Grand Prize Winner:
$50,000 USD
Solution open-sourced and deployed through Call for Code and partners Mentorship from IBM experts and ecosystem
Second & Third Place:
$25,000 and $10,000 USD respectively
University & Student Awards:
$10,000 USD and implementation support
Regional Winners & Runners-up: Receive certificates, exposure, and ongoing mentoring
Winning solutions are often turned into open-source projects with real-world deployment, creating lasting impact well beyond the competition.
Location
This is a fully virtual, global challenge. Participants from Nigeria and anywhere in the world can collaborate remotely using IBM platforms, GitHub, and community support systems.
Finalists and winners may be invited to present their work at global IBM or UN events, which may be held virtually or in person depending on logistics and budget.
Deadline
Not Specified
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