Every year, Call for Code brings together developers, technologists, and problem solvers from around the world to tackle some of the most pressing humanitarian challenges using cutting-edge technology. As a community manager, I know how important it is to connect developers with opportunities that allow them to make a real impact. That’s why I’m excited to highlight this year’s Call for Code Global Challenge—where AI takes center stage in solving global sustainability issues.

AI for Social Good: A Year-Long Challenge

Now in its eighth year, Call for Code is expanding with a series of SDG-focused hackathons running throughout 2025. IBM, in partnership with David Clark Cause, the United Nations Human Rights Office, and the Linux Foundation, is calling on developers to create AI-powered solutions that drive meaningful change.

For those of you who have been part of previous Call for Code challenges, you know this isn’t just another hackathon—it’s a movement. Since its launch in 2018, this initiative has led to real-world solutions that have improved disaster response, climate resilience, and accessibility. This year, the focus is on how AI can be used to tackle the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The First Challenge: AI for Clean Water

Kicking off this year’s challenge is an SDG6-themed hackathon—AI for Clean Water & Sanitation—running from March 20 to March 31, 2025. Aligned with UN World Water Day on March 22, this event invites participants to build AI virtual agents using IBM watsonx.ai that can help address global water challenges. This could be anything from AI-driven water monitoring solutions to intelligent virtual assistants that help communities manage sanitation resources.

What’s in It for Participants?

Beyond the impact and learning opportunities, there are some fantastic rewards for top-performing teams:

• $5,000 USD for the top project from each qualifying hackathon.

• Conference passes to IBM TechXchange 2025 in Orlando for winning teams.

• A chance to compete for the Grand Prize—a $50,000 USD cash award and open-source project support from the Linux Foundation.

Why You Should Get Involved

This is an opportunity to:

• Build hands-on AI skills with no-cost access to enterprise-grade IBM AI tools like watsonx.ai.

• Work on solutions that matter—helping communities globally while growing your expertise.

• Network with like-minded innovators who are passionate about AI and social good.

How to Register

If you’re ready to code for a cause, register for the first Call for Code 2025 hackathon before March 18, 2025. The challenge runs from March 20 to 31, and more details on upcoming SDG-focused hackathons will be shared throughout the year.

Join the movement. Build with AI. Make a difference.

You can Register here

Check out the Call for Code website

Read more on the Call for Code Challenge from the IBM NewsRoom