Fiji’s first $15K Hackathon targets future digital leaders

The launch of an inaugural hackathon with a $15,000 prize pool will give young entrepreneurs an opportunity to turn ideas into real solutions.

The Fiji Innovation Hub two‑day event yesterday and today brought together developers, designers and problem‑solvers to create digital solutions in areas such as financial technology and sustainability.

These are sectors seen as key to Fiji’s future economic growth.

Five teams will compete for top prizes, with the total funding more than tripled from $4500 to $15,000.

The initiative is backed by major partners including Mastercard, HSBC and Government agencies.

Digital economy

Reserve Bank of Fiji Governor Ariff Ali said the hackathon was part of a wider push to build a strong digital economy.

“Innovation is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity,” Mr Ali said.

Fiji must reduce its heavy reliance on tourism and agriculture, industries that are vulnerable to global shocks such as pandemics and climate events.

Digital industries, he said, offer new opportunities that are not limited by geography.

“A solution built in Suva can serve customers anywhere in the world,” he said.

The hackathon focuses on FinTech, sustainability and business resilience.

Participants have 48 hours to test ideas, identify real‑world problems and develop workable solutions with guidance from certified mentors.

The Fiji Innovation Hub has hosted workshops, networking events and trained 24 innovation mentors to support emerging entrepreneurs.

Economic Development Corporation officer Andrew Shepherd said innovation does not happen by accident and must be supported through strong partnerships.

The programme is backed by international partners including the European Union, Australia, New Zealand and UN agencies.

The goal is to encourage young people to become job creators rather than job seekers.

“This is an investment in our future,” he said.

“We believe the next chapter of our economy can be written by minds in this room,” Mr Ali said.

With strong corporate backing and growing youth participation, the hackathon signals a serious step toward building a more innovative and resilient Fiji economy.