Introduction

Welcome to the IBM Z × UNSA Sheridan Hackathon.

This hackathon brings together students, developers, designers, and innovators to build AI-powered solutions addressing real-world global challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

Organized by IBM Z Sheridan and the United Nations Student Association (UNSA) Sheridan, the event encourages participants to explore artificial intelligence, enterprise technologies, and cloud computing while collaborating with peers, mentors, and industry professionals.

Participants will work in teams to design innovative solutions that tackle challenges across industries such as healthcare, sustainability, finance, education, and public services.

Tools and Technologies

Participants may use any programming language, framework, or platform, but teams are encouraged to explore enterprise technologies and AI tools.

Suggested tools include:

AI & Machine Learning

• Python
• TensorFlow / PyTorch
• OpenAI APIs
• Hugging Face

IBM Technologies

• IBM Cloud
• watsonx.ai
• IBM Z / Enterprise computing tools
• IBM Developer resources

Development Tools

• GitHub
• VS Code or preferred IDE
• REST APIs
• Cloud databases

Participants are encouraged to explore how enterprise-grade technologies like IBM Z and cloud platforms can power scalable AI solutions.

Inspiration

Teams are encouraged to build projects that address real-world challenges and global problems.

Possible areas include:

🌍 Climate resilience and environmental sustainability
🏥 Healthcare access and medical innovation
🏙 Smart cities and infrastructure
📚 Education and digital learning tools
💳 Financial inclusion and economic opportunity

Projects that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) are strongly encouraged.

Learn more about the SDGs:
https://sdgs.un.org/goals

Contact Us & Support Channels

If you have questions or need support during the hackathon, the organizing team will be available.

📧 General Inquiries
asma.ahmed.work@gmail.com

💬 Hackathon Communication
Discord / Slack channel (shared with registered participants)

👨‍💻 Mentorship Support
Mentors and organizers will be available during the event to answer questions and provide technical guidance.

Additional Resource Links IBM Technology Resources

IBM SkillsBuild
https://skillsbuild.org

IBM Developer Portal
https://developer.ibm.com

IBM Z Developer Resources
https://developer.ibm.com/components/ibm-z/

AI & Development Resources

Hugging Face
https://huggingface.co

OpenAI Documentation
https://platform.openai.com/docs

GitHub
https://github.com