Deadline: 16-May-2026
The Ready, Spark, Charge Hackathon is an innovation program designed to accelerate technology-based solutions for energy and climate challenges in the Philippines. It brings together students, professionals, and startup founders to develop practical solutions that improve energy systems and climate resilience, particularly in Western Visayas.
Core Focus Areas
Participants are expected to build solutions in the following domains:
Energy Efficiency
- Reducing energy consumption in homes, businesses, and industries
- Improving operational efficiency in energy systems
- Lowering energy costs through innovation
Renewable Energy Access and Financing
- Expanding access to clean and renewable energy sources
- Innovative financing models for renewable energy adoption
- Improving energy security and affordability
Smart Agriculture
- Technology solutions for farmers and fisherfolk
- Climate-resilient agricultural practices
- Data-driven farming and resource optimization
Sustainable Transportation
- Cleaner and more efficient transport systems
- Smart mobility solutions for urban and rural areas
- Reduction of emissions in transportation networks
Program Objectives
The hackathon aims to:
- Promote innovation in energy and climate solutions
- Support clean energy transition in the Philippines
- Strengthen climate resilience in local communities
- Reduce operational and energy costs through technology
- Support sustainable livelihoods for farmers and fisherfolk
- Encourage startup creation in energy innovation
- Connect innovators with industry experts and mentors
Event Format
Location and Dates
- Location: Iloilo City, Philippines
- Dates: May 21–23, 2026
- Duration: 3 days (in-person event)
Hackathon Structure
Participants will go through:
- Problem framing and challenge introduction
- Immersion activities and sector briefings
- Team formation (or joining pre-formed teams)
- Mentorship sessions with experts
- Solution development and pitch preparation
- Final presentations to a judging panel
Team Structure
- Registration is individual
- Teams are formed during the hackathon
- Pre-formed teams are allowed
- Team size: 2 to 3 members minimum requirement
- At least 2 members must attend Day 1 and Day 3
Who Can Participate?
Eligible participants include:
- University and college students
- Young professionals in public or private sectors
- Startup founders and entrepreneurs
- Innovators developing energy-related solutions
Participants should have interest in:
- Energy systems
- Climate technology
- Sustainability and innovation
- Entrepreneurship and startups
Prizes and Benefits
Cash Prizes
- Grand Winner: PHP 30,000
- 1st Runner Up: PHP 20,000
- 2nd Runner Up: PHP 10,000
- Consolation prizes: PHP 2,000 per team
Additional Rewards
- AWS credits worth up to USD 10,000
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Networking with innovators and professionals
- Post-hackathon support for project development
- Exposure to global innovation platforms
- Special category awards across challenge areas
Skills and Outcomes
Participants gain:
- Hands-on experience in climate-tech innovation
- Exposure to real-world energy and sustainability challenges
- Pitching and startup development skills
- Access to technical and business mentorship
- Opportunities for venture acceleration
- Collaboration experience in multidisciplinary teams
Key Themes of Innovation
The hackathon encourages solutions that:
- Improve energy security in the Philippines
- Expand renewable energy adoption
- Support climate adaptation and resilience
- Modernize transportation systems
- Enable digital transformation in agriculture
- Reduce environmental impact of energy use
Why This Hackathon Matters
The Ready, Spark, Charge Hackathon plays a key role in:
- Accelerating clean energy innovation in the Philippines
- Supporting climate resilience in vulnerable sectors
- Encouraging youth-led entrepreneurship
- Bridging technology with real-world energy challenges
- Strengthening regional innovation ecosystems in Western Visayas
- Creating pathways for startup development in climate tech
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the hackathon?
Students, young professionals, startup founders, and innovators interested in energy and climate solutions.
Do I need a team to register?
No. Registration is individual, and teams are formed during the event. Pre-formed teams of 2–3 members are also allowed.
Where and when is the event held?
The hackathon will take place in Iloilo City, Philippines from May 21 to May 23, 2026.
What kind of projects are expected?
Technology-based solutions in energy efficiency, renewable energy, smart agriculture, and sustainable transportation.
What are the prizes?
Cash prizes up to PHP 30,000, AWS credits up to USD 10,000, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Are beginners allowed?
Yes. Students and early-stage innovators are encouraged to participate, especially those with interest in energy and climate solutions.
Is attendance mandatory for all days?
At least two team members must attend Day 1 and Day 3 of the hackathon.
Conclusion
The Ready, Spark, Charge Hackathon is a high-impact innovation event designed to develop real-world solutions for energy and climate challenges in the Philippines. By combining mentorship, technical resources, and competitive funding, it supports the growth of clean energy innovation, startup development, and youth-led climate action in Western Visayas.
For more information, visit New Energy Nexus.
