Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) invites innovators, developers, and founders worldwide to participate in the K2 Think Hackathon. This international competition challenges teams to build groundbreaking applications with the potential for real-world impact using an advanced AI reasoning model.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Competition
- For: Innovators, developers, researchers, founders, and students worldwide.
- Key Benefits: Travel grant to Abu Dhabi, tech prizes, career opportunities, and global product integration.
- Application Deadline: October 26, 2025
- Location: Global (Online) & Abu Dhabi, UAE (In-person finals)
Competition Overview
The K2 Think Hackathon is a two-stage international challenge designed to find innovative applications for K2 Think, a leading open-source system for advanced reasoning. Stage 1 is a global call for ideas, where teams submit a one-page proposal. The top 10 teams will then be invited for Stage 2, an intensive 48-hour in-person build challenge in Abu Dhabi, to develop their ideas into working demos.
Key Benefits
- Real-World Impact: The winning team’s idea will be integrated into a future release of the K2 Think app, reaching users globally.
- Travel & Prizes: Shortlisted teams receive travel grants to cover flights, accommodation, and meals in Abu Dhabi. Winners will receive MacBooks and other tech gear.
- Early Access: Get a first look at upcoming K2 Think releases and test new capabilities.
- Career Opportunities: Connect with MBZUAI, G42, and the broader UAE tech ecosystem for potential career paths, partnerships, and collaborations.
Eligibility Criteria
- The competition is open to innovators, developers, researchers, founders, and students worldwide.
- Applicants must apply in teams of up to four members.
- Submissions must include a one-page proposal and CVs for all team members, combined into a single PDF.
Key Dates and Schedule
- October 14-26, 2025: Stage 1 – Global Idea Call (Applications Open/Close)
- October 27-31, 2025: Finalists are reviewed and announced.
- November 7-9, 2025: Stage 2 – 48-hour Build Challenge in Abu Dhabi.
- November 9, 2025: Winner Announcement.
How to Apply
Ready to build the future of AI reasoning? Submit your team’s one-page proposal before the deadline on October 26, 2025, through the official application portal.
About MBZUAI
MBZUAI is a research-focused university in Abu Dhabi, and the first university dedicated entirely to the advancement of science through AI. The university empowers the next generation of AI leaders, driving innovation and impactful applications of AI through world-class education and interdisciplinary research.
Learn More: K2 Think Hackathon
