Global payments leader Visa, in partnership with strategic reinvention firm Reinvantage, has officially opened applications for the She’s Next Hackathon 2025. This groundbreaking, no-code competition is designed to empower female entrepreneurs across Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus with a $20,000 prize pool, elite mentorship, and a platform to turn bold ideas into viable business strategies.
The initiative, part of the global “She’s Next Empowered by Visa” program, aims to accelerate inclusive innovation by supporting a new generation of female changemakers.
Beyond the Code: A New Kind of Hackathon
Forget sleepless nights fueled by caffeine and code. The She’s Next Hackathon flips the traditional model on its head. Instead of focusing on programming, this competition zeroes in on what truly drives a business forward: strategy, problem-solving, and innovation.
Participants will tackle real-world entrepreneurial challenges, from ensuring financial sustainability and executing business pivots to mapping out market expansion and forecasting future trends. The entire program is conducted online in English, making it accessible to founders across 17 countries.
“The She’s Next Hackathon is not just a competition—it is a launchpad for bold ideas and empowered leadership”, said Cristina Doros, Visa Senior Vice President for the region. “I am excited to see how this program will elevate new entrepreneurial talents”.
What’s on Offer: Prizes, Mentorship, and a Powerful Network
The program offers a substantial support package designed for maximum impact. Winners will be selected across three categories, receiving financial grants to fuel their growth:
- Main Winner: $10,000
- Most Innovative: $5,000
- Best Social Impact: $5,000
Beyond the funding, winners will receive a three-month intensive mentorship with industry leaders, significant media visibility, and promotion across the robust She’s Next community platform—a vibrant network connecting like-minded female founders from the region. All participants will gain access to expert-led webinars and invaluable international networking opportunities.
The Big Picture: Driving Systemic Change
This initiative is more than just a competition; it’s a strategic move to address systemic challenges and drive inclusive growth. The hackathon directly contributes to several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Gender Equality (SDG 5), Decent Work & Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Innovation (SDG 9).
By championing female-led ventures, Visa and Reinvantage are actively working to close the gender innovation gap, foster 21st-century skills, and strengthen the regional ecosystem by connecting grassroots innovators with global leaders.
“This is about more than entrepreneurship—it’s about shaping the future of inclusive, resilient business”, added Andrew Wrobel, Chief Reinvention Officer at Reinvantage.
How to Get Involved
Participation is open to female entrepreneurs at any stage, from ideation to established businesses. You can register as an individual or as a team of up to five members. Mixed-gender teams are welcome, provided they are women-led.
Key Dates:
- Registration: June 30 – August 29, 2025
- Educational Phase: September 3–12, 2025
- Hackathon Phase: September 18 – October 1, 2025
- Grand Finale: October 3, 2025
Ready to build the future? Registration is open until August 29, 2025. To apply and find more details, visit the official She’s Next Hackathon page.
