Microsoft Global Hackathon 2025: MVPs Driving Innovation Across Communities
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!Thinking of Joining the MVP Program? Hear What Makes It Special!
We’re thrilled to share our brand-new video spotlighting the heart of the MVP Program - our MVPs themselves! In this inspiring video, MVPs from around the world open up about what being part of this global community means to them, and why they love it. Watch the MVP Program video here If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be an MVP - or if you're considering applying - this is the perfect place to start! But that’s just the beginning. We’ve gathered a set of helpful resources to guide you through the program and how to get involved: New to the MVP Program? Start Here: MVP Communities Website – Find everything you need to know about the MVP Program, including how to apply, who the MVPs are near you, and the impact they’re making in their communities. MVP FAQs - Our updated FAQ page answers key questions about the application process, eligibility, expectations, and more. Live Event Replay - Don’t miss the replay of our recent live session, where MVPs Anastasia Salari and Zaid Zaim share their personal journeys, practical advice, and tips for those thinking about applying. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you’ve been actively contributing to the community over the past 12 months, this might be your moment. Whether through sharing knowledge, helping others, organizing events, or driving conversations - you’re exactly who the MVP Program is looking for. Dive into the resources, get inspired by the stories, and if you meet the criteria, consider applying or connecting with someone who can nominate you. Your journey to becoming an MVP could start today!
