This September, thousands of innovators - from Microsoft employees to Most Valuable Professionals and Regional Directors - will join forces for a one-of-a-kind global innovation challenge. It’s a week where creativity thrives, communities connect, and bold ideas are transformed into real-world solutions.
The countdown is on! The Microsoft Global Hackathon is back the week of September 15, 2025, bringing together thousands of Microsoft employees and select external contributors to dream big, team up, and build solutions that make a difference.
Hosted by The Microsoft Garage, this multi-day gathering is the largest private hackathon in the world - a place where creativity, curiosity, and community collide.
A Movement Born in 2014
When Satya Nadella launched the first Microsoft Hackathon in 2014, the goal was simple: spark innovation and inspire cultural transformation. Fast-forward to today, and it’s become a global movement.
In 2024, more than 71,000 people participated across 75+ venues worldwide - spanning every role, team, and geography at Microsoft. The energy was contagious, and the projects tackled challenges in AI, sustainability, accessibility, and developer tools.
MVPs and RDs Making Their Mark
Last year, Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs) and Regional Directors (RDs) joined virtually, bringing their expertise and community connections into the mix, collaborating with employees, mentored teams, and even took time off from work to fully immerse themselves in the event. Projects ranged from reimagining education and improving transportation to advancing responsible AI, supporting healthcare innovations, and championing diversity and inclusion.
“We find that MVPs and RDs bring meaningful perspectives and experiences to Hackathon, and this diversity can enhance the outcomes for project teams.” – Susie Kandzor, Senior Director of Hacking.
Stories from the Front Lines
In 2024, several MVPs were publicly recognized for their impactful contributions: Lesley Crook led a project exploring HR onboarding experiences using Viva, Mesh, AI, and Copilot, while Jeremy Sinclair described his collaboration with Microsoft employees as “exhilarating,” highlighting the value of cross-functional teamwork. These stories reflect Microsoft’s commitment to celebrating MVP impact and fostering inclusive, community-driven innovation.
How You Can Join the Story
Even if you’re not an MVP, you can still be part of the movement:
- Learn more about the MVP Program and its role in the Microsoft ecosystem.
- Watch the MVP Program video for inspiration.
- Curious about becoming an MVP? Check out the FAQs to see how to apply.
Innovation Starts Here
The Microsoft Global Hackathon isn’t just an event - it’s proof that grassroots innovation can change the way we work, live, and connect. Whether you’re joining in this year or simply cheering from the sidelines, we invite you to follow along, share your thoughts, and celebrate the people who make it possible.
What’s your MVP story? Drop it in the comments or tag us on social media. Let’s inspire the next wave of innovators and community leaders!
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