Applications Open for 2026 AgTech Hackathon

NDSU partners with Bayer Crop Science and National Science Foundation AgTech Engine to host multiday competition

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:31am

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North Dakota State University (NDSU) will partner with Bayer Crop Science and the National Science Foundation AgTech Engine to host the AgTech Hackathon, a multiday competition that challenges participants to apply analytical, computational and creative thinking skills to real-world agricultural and biological data problems. The event will take place February 20-22, 2026 at NDSU's Peltier Complex in Fargo, North Dakota.

Why it matters

The AgTech Hackathon aims to foster collaboration, creativity and practical problem-solving in the agriculture industry by giving participants the opportunity to work with real datasets, strengthen their analytical skills and translate scientific insights into solutions that matter for agriculture.

The details

Teams will work intensively over the course of the event, culminating in final presentations, during which solutions will be evaluated based on scientific rigor, creativity and clarity. The hackathon is open to participants interested in agronomy, plant sciences, data science, engineering, computer science, statistics and other related fields. No prior hackathon experience is required.

  • The AgTech Hackathon will take place February 20-22, 2026.
  • Applications for the event are now open.

The players

North Dakota State University (NDSU)

A public research university located in Fargo, North Dakota, and the host of the AgTech Hackathon.

Bayer Crop Science

A multinational agrochemical and pharmaceutical company that is partnering with NDSU and the National Science Foundation AgTech Engine to host the hackathon.

National Science Foundation AgTech Engine

A program of the National Science Foundation that supports the development of innovative agricultural technologies and is co-hosting the AgTech Hackathon with NDSU and Bayer Crop Science.

Ana Carcedo

NDSU Extension broadleaf crops agronomist and the organizer of the AgTech Hackathon.

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What they’re saying

“The AgTech Hackathon is designed to foster collaboration, creativity and practical problem-solving. It gives participants the opportunity to work with real datasets, strengthen their analytical skills and translate scientific insights into solutions that matter for agriculture.”

— Ana Carcedo, NDSU Extension broadleaf crops agronomist and event organizer

What’s next

More information, including application details and event logistics, can be found at ndsu.ag/hackathon-26.

The takeaway

The AgTech Hackathon provides a unique opportunity for graduate students, postdoctoral researchers and research staff to apply their skills to real-world agricultural challenges, fostering innovation and collaboration in the agriculture industry.