Crypto.com Collaborates with Leading Universities for APAC Hackathon Initiative

Leading the charge in cryptocurrency innovation, Crypto.com today announced the initiation of its first-ever APAC Hackathon. Backed by partnerships with renowned academic institutions, Singapore Management University (SMU) and Melbourne Business School, the Hackathon encourages participants across APAC to design Web3 and AI-driven solutions that support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development objectives.

Prash Pandit, Senior Vice President of Product and Innovation at Crypto.com, highlighted the platform’s dedication to innovation: “Helping to foster innovation and the talent pipeline are key components to our commitment at Crypto.com of effectively and responsibly advancing Web3,” said Pandit. “We are tremendously excited to launch our APAC Hackathon programme and to do so in partnership with such esteemed institutions of higher learning in Singapore Management University and Melbourne Business School. We look forward to reviewing submissions from across the APAC region and helping advance conceptual ideas to an exciting reality.”

This Hackathon is laser-focused on responsible innovation, particularly in Web3 and AI domains, to address pressing global sustainability challenges. Through this collaboration, Crypto.com pledges to bolster thought leadership in Singapore and reinforce its standing as a worldwide hub for conscientious innovation in Web3 and AI.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a blueprint adopted unanimously by UN Member States in 2015, lays down 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030. With 2030 in sight, Crypto.com’s APAC Hackathon emphasizes the SDGs that need immediate attention. Specifically, participants are being guided towards Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 13 (Climate Action).

Commencing today, the Hackathon registration is open to all APAC-based participants over 18, either as individuals or teams. They have until September 29 to present their concept proposals. Of these, 12 entrants will progress to the Hackathon’s incubation stage. These select finalists will gain access to a Crypto.com mentor and partake in masterclasses on Web3 and AI topics. The entire venture culminates on November 14, during the Singapore FinTech Festival week. Finalists are getting complimentary festival tickets and stand to win cash prizes, with the top winner taking home USD $20,000.

Hau Koh Foo, Director of SMU Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, spoke highly of the venture, stating, “The convergence of AI and Web3 is a precursor to a new technology era. Therefore, it’s crucial to prepare the next generation of young talents to harness the power of these disruptive technologies, and mould their mindset to utilise them for the benefit all of humanity. This hackathon is a significant way for students, youths, and enthusiasts to learn about these emerging technologies, how they can be used to make a positive impact on the world, and be part of the next generation of changemakers.”

Nadia Massoud, Professor of Finance at Melbourne Business School, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “As an ambassador for Melbourne Business School, I am delighted to participate in the launch of our APAC Hackathon program hosted by Crypto.com. This initiative strongly resonates with MBS’ mission to foster innovation and nurture a vibrant talent ecosystem. In collaboration with esteemed partners, Crypto.com and Singapore Management University, we are excited to present this special program. We eagerly anticipate receiving outstanding submissions from throughout the APAC region and translating groundbreaking ideas into thrilling realities through the utilization of advanced technologies like Web3 and AI.”

Interested parties from the APAC region can learn more and participate by visiting Crypto.com’s official event page.

Founded in 2016, Crypto.com has built trust with over 80 million global customers. Being at the forefront of regulatory compliance, security, and privacy, their vision is clear: Cryptocurrency in Every Wallet™. The platform remains steadfast in boosting cryptocurrency adoption and empowering the next-gen innovators, ensuring a just digital future for all. Discover more at Crypto.com.