Abu dhabi: Athar+, Abu Dhabi's pioneering hub for accelerating social impact, operated by the Authority of Social Contribution - Ma'an, has launched the second HACK4IMPACT hackathon. This event unites changemakers to create practical solutions that address significant social priorities, promoting positive social impact throughout Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, this hackathon aligns with the UAE's Year of Family, focusing on innovative approaches to family-related challenges. Scheduled from 16th to 18th June 2026 at Athar+, the three-day program gathers aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, professionals, and community members to tackle three core family issues: strengthening family foundations, improving financial wellbeing for parents, and aiding families caring for ageing parents.
Participants will employ design thinking methodologies to explore challenges, validate ideas, and develop prototype concepts, culminating in presentations before a panel of judges. Promising concepts may receive further support through Athar+'s incubation ecosystem, allowing participants to continue refining their solutions post-event.
The initiative seeks to advance family wellbeing, enhance social cohesion, and develop solutions for the evolving needs of Abu Dhabi's families. It emphasizes practical innovation skills while identifying scalable concepts capable of addressing essential social priorities. The hackathon fosters collaboration by bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and expertise.
This event serves as an entry point for youth and first-time innovators to engage in solving community challenges through entrepreneurship and social innovation, inspiring them to contribute actively to impactful solutions.
Salem AlShamsi, Executive Director of Social Incubation and Contracting at Ma'an, stated, 'HACK4IMPACT reflects Athar+'s dedication to empowering innovators and aspiring entrepreneurs in developing practical solutions for real social priorities, enhancing community quality of life.
"By empowering future talent through Athar+, we are reinforcing Abu Dhabi's status as a regional hub for social entrepreneurship while furthering the Authority's vision of fostering a culture of giving, participation, and measurable social progress.''
Participants will benefit from dedicated workspaces, expert mentorship, professional services, and tailored growth programs offered by Athar+, aiding in transforming ideas into prototype concepts and accessing opportunities within Abu Dhabi's innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.