By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University opens applications for the 2026 AgTech Hackathon, a multi-day event focused on data driven problem solving in agriculture. The event takes place from Feb. 20 to 22 at the Peltier Complex in Fargo, North Dakota.
The AgTech Hackathon is hosted by NDSU in partnership with Bayer Crop Science and the National Science Foundation AgTech Engine. The event brings together graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and research staff from different academic backgrounds. Participants work in teams to solve real world challenges using agricultural and biological data.
During the hackathon, teams analyze complex datasets and develop practical solutions to problems faced in modern agriculture. Participants also learn how to communicate their findings clearly to a panel of judges from academia, industry, and end user groups. Solutions are evaluated based on scientific strength, creativity, and clear presentation.
“The AgTech Hackathon is designed to foster collaboration, creativity and practical problem-solving,” says Ana Carcedo, NDSU Extension broadleaf crops agronomist and event organizer. “It gives participants the opportunity to work with real datasets, strengthen their analytical skills and translate scientific insights into solutions that matter for agriculture.”
The event welcomes participants with interests in agronomy, plant science, data science, engineering, computer science, statistics, and related fields. Prior hackathon experience is not required. The goal is to create a learning environment where people from different disciplines can work together and share ideas.
Teams work intensively throughout the event and present their final solutions at the end of the competition. These presentations allow participants to gain experience in teamwork, problem solving, and professional communication.
The AgTech Hackathon supports innovation by connecting education with real industry needs. It also helps prepare future professionals to use data and technology to improve agricultural systems.
More details about applications, schedules, and event logistics are available at ndsu.ag/hackathon-26. Interested participants are encouraged to apply early and prepare for a challenging and rewarding learning experience.
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Categories: North Dakota, Education