IEEE Smart World Challenge
International Research Hackathon @ IEEE SWC 2026
A collaborative design experience bringing together 35 selected international participants to tackle cutting-edge AI & Smart World research challenges.
About the Challenge
The IEEE Smart World Challenge is an international hackathon bringing together 35 selected participants to tackle a research challenge focused on AI for smart cities and next-gen technologies, including digital twins.
Over two days, participants will work in multidisciplinary teams, supported by academics, researchers and experts from the IEEE community, with the goal of transforming a research challenge into a concrete solution.
Why Take Part
The Smart World Challenge offers the opportunity to experience the IEEE Smart World Congress from an active perspective, contributing to a collaborative design experience that brings together research, technology and expertise from different backgrounds.
Multidisciplinary Teams
Collaborating in multidisciplinary, international teams with complementary skills.
AI & Digital Twins
Working on a research challenge focused on AI for smart cities and next-gen technologies, including digital twins.
Experimental Environment
Developing a project in a collaborative and experimental environment supported by IEEE experts.
Final Presentation
Presenting your solution during the event's final session to an international panel of experts.
How It Works
Challenge Launch & Team Formation
The IEEE Smart World Challenge opens with the presentation of the challenge and the formation of multidisciplinary teams.
2-Day Collaborative Design Sprint
From that point on, participants will work collaboratively over two days, supported throughout the event by mentors and experts.
Final Showcase & Panel Pitch
The programme concludes with the presentation of the proposed solutions to an international panel of researchers and professionals.
Who Can Take Part
The IEEE Smart World Challenge is open to 35 selected participants. Applications are open to:
The Challenge
AI for Smart Cities & Next-Gen Technologies (including Digital Twins)
The challenge will focus on AI for Smart Cities and Next-Gen Technologies, including Digital Twins; an area exploring how artificial intelligence can drive smarter, more adaptive and responsive urban systems and services. Participants will be invited to design innovative solutions that explore how AI-driven technologies, including digital twins, can support smarter, more adaptive and intelligent systems in real-world scenarios.
Organizers & Partners
Apply for the Challenge
To apply, complete the Eventbrite application form. Applications are evaluated to select 35 multidisciplinary participants.
Complete Application Form