NAIROBI, Kenya- TBD, a subsidiary of Block, has just announced the launch of the TBD Hackathon, a dynamic competition set to shake up the tech scene across Africa.
In collaboration with the Africa Bitcoin Conference, this hackathon is a call to all innovators and developers on the continent to channel their creativity into revolutionizing payment systems.
With Africa’s financial landscape facing challenges like limited banking access and sky-high transaction fees, this event couldn’t come at a better time.
Running from July 31 to September 15, 2024, the TBD Hackathon invites African developers to dive deep into the world of financial technology using TBD’s open-source protocol, tbDEX.
This isn’t just another hackathon; it’s a platform designed to empower the brightest minds in Africa to tackle pressing issues in the payment systems sector.
Participants will be tasked with developing a cutting-edge payment application that leverages tbDEX, a protocol that connects users with wallet providers and financial institutions, all while surfacing the most competitive exchange rates and fees.
This initiative isn’t just about competition—it’s about sparking a movement. As Angie Jones, Global VP of Developer Relations for TBD, put it, “Whether you are a seasoned professional or a passionate newcomer, the TBD Hackathon is the perfect platform to build the next generation of financial tools for the continent.”
The hackathon reaches its crescendo from December 9-11, 2024, at the Africa Bitcoin Conference in Nairobi, Kenya.
But it’s not just about showing up; it’s about showing off. Six finalist teams will have the opportunity to pitch their innovations to a panel of judges, making their case for why their solution could be the future of African payments.
And let’s talk about the stakes. The top three projects will walk away with prizes in Bitcoin: $15,000 for first place, $10,000 for second, and $5,000 for third.
It’s not just about the money, though—this is a chance for developers to put their work in the spotlight, gain recognition, and possibly even find backing for future ventures.
The TBD Hackathon is a reflection of the broader push to integrate Africa into the global digital economy.
As the continent continues to grapple with financial inclusion, high transaction costs, and inefficient cross-border payments, events like these play a crucial role in bridging the gap.
By harnessing local talent and providing platforms for practicing, such initiatives fuel the future of innovation in Africa.
