On 25 October, FNB will host some of the brightest minds in app development and innovative technology solutions for entrepreneurs at this year’s FNB App of the Year 72-hour Hackathon. A hackathon is an event, where teams of developers, designers, and subject matter experts come together to collaborate intensively on projects, usually involving software development. The goal is to create a working prototype or solution that addresses a specific problem or challenge within a short time frame.
The FNB App of the Year Hackathon aims to connect developers, designers, tech enthusiasts, and business innovators from across the African continent. Previous editions of the hackathon have led to the development of remarkable solutions, some of which have turned into startups through venture capital. This has achieved rapid success, as seen with Guardian Health, that was subsequently acquired by blue-chip companies.
African developers and coders are encouraged to participate in this unique experience while there is still time, as entries for submission close on 21 October 2024.
FNB, the very first winner of the App of the Year Awards and Best Global Banking App, has a rich history of using technology to deliver innovative solutions to meet customers’ needs.
“As a bank committed to driving innovation, FNB recognises the importance of investing in the future of Africa, where technology can transform communities, improve lives, and bridge the gaps that exist in society. The hackathon not only provides a space for creative problem-solving, but also promotes an ecosystem that encourages collaboration, nurtures entrepreneurship, and helps developers bring their visionary ideas to life,” says Andiswa Bata, CEO of FNB Business.
With previous participants having come from 10 African countries and 455 communities across South Africa, the hackathon is an inspiring demonstration of the continent’s talent and innovation potential.
Solving real-world problems through innovation
This year’s FNB App of the Year Hackathon invites participants to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing South Africa today. Participants can choose from a range of problem statements that address various domains where digital innovation can make a difference, including:
- Access to quality education: Developing affordable and scalable digital solutions to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students, especially those in rural areas.
- Empowering small businesses: Creating innovative fintech solutions to provide financial services, literacy, and tools for small businesses in townships and informal settlements.
- Youth unemployment: Designing solutions that connect young people with technical and vocational training, mentorship, and employment opportunities to drive economic participation.
- Access to healthcare: Developing tech-driven solutions to ensure that people in rural and underprivileged areas have access to affordable and quality healthcare services.
- Food security and waste reduction: Creating sustainable solutions that minimise food waste, promote redistribution, and improve food security for vulnerable populations.
During the 72-hour event, participants will collaborate to develop minimum viable products (MVPs) that will be eligible for judging in the Best Hackathon Solution category of the FNB App of the Year Awards. The 2024 FNB App of the Year Awards event will take place in Johannesburg before the end of the year.
FNB invites developers, designers, and innovators from across the continent to participate in this exciting journey of creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving.
For more information, developers can visit www.appoftheyear.co.za.