CoAfina 2026 invites students from Latin America to create solutions using open data for science and education

CoAfina 2026, the fifth edition of the virtual hackathon that brings together university students from Latin America to develop innovative solutions to scientific and educational challenges through the use of open data, will take place from 27 to 29 November 2026. The initiative promotes multidisciplinary collaboration, the exchange of knowledge and the application of emerging technologies to tackle issues of regional interest.

Over 36 hours of collaborative online work, teams made up of students from different disciplines and countries will work on challenges proposed by universities, organisations, research groups and professional networks, contributing to the development of solutions with the potential for social impact. The challenges will focus on areas such as science and open data, digital inclusion, sustainability, emerging technologies and collaborative culture.

The event also includes a preparatory phase featuring a pre-hackathon workshop on 23 November, during which participants will be able to familiarise themselves with the event’s format, build their skills and form working teams. During the hackathon, participants will have access to mentoring, specialist talks, open data resources and opportunities to engage with an international community committed to open science and innovation.

Undergraduate, master’s and PhD students enrolled at higher education institutions in Latin America are eligible to take part, regardless of their field of study. The organisers emphasise that, in addition to technical expertise, knowledge in research, data analysis, communication, design and other disciplines that contribute to the development of comprehensive solutions is required.

The projects developed will be assessed by a specialist jury and will be eligible for prizes of USD 700 for first place, USD 500 for second, USD 350 for third and a special mention worth USD 150. Furthermore, the solutions developed during the event will be made openly available, encouraging the reuse of knowledge and strengthening regional collaboration.

Established as one of Latin America’s leading platforms for student-led open innovation, CoAfina 2026 aims to build capacity, promote the strategic use of open data and foster connections between young talent, scientific communities and institutions across the region.

Those interested can find out more and register via the official CoAfina 2026 website: laconga.redclara.net/hackathon.