Are you passionate about NASA missions, technology, innovation, event planning, and community building? Do you want to help develop the largest annual global hackathon with the NASA Space Apps Global Organizing (GO) Team? If so, join us as a NASA Space Apps Local Lead this year!
What is a NASA Space Apps Local Lead?
Local Leads facilitate the participation of their local community in the NASA International Space Apps Challenge, the largest annual global hackathon. As a Local Lead, you represent a specific city or town. You are responsible for organizing an in-person or virtual Local Event where participants can solve real world problems using free and open NASA data alongside participants from around the world.
On October 4-5, 2025, participants will work together to create projects and submit their innovative ideas for judging. Local Leads are essential event organizers and are responsible for encouraging and expanding collaboration, innovation, and positive global problem-solving for the NASA Space Apps Challenge.
Responsibilities of a Local Lead:
- Plan a virtual or in-person Local Event
- Recruit and support participants, local collaborators, local judges, and a local organizing team
- Teach or coordinate workshops to encourage participants to learn new skills and meet one another before or during the hackathon
- Nominate top projects for judging at the global level
- Adhere to all terms and conditions of NASA Space Apps referencing guidance, trainings, and resources
Becoming a NASA Space Apps Local Lead
Each year, Local Leads apply using the online application. Applications are reviewed and approved on an individual basis. Local Leads can only host one event, and only one is approved per city or town. Once approved, Local Leads are invited to attend virtual training calls with hundreds of other Local Leads from around the world. The content of these calls covers everything you need to know about hosting a successful NASA Space Apps Local Event. You’ll also be able to network and design events alongside your new community of Local Leads located in different cities worldwide!
Qualities of a Local Lead:
- Passionate about designing collaborative and fun events
- Patient, understanding, and welcoming of all participants
- Proactive problem solving skills
- Clear and effective communicator
Benefits of Being a Local Lead
Engaging Your Local Community: By championing NASA Space Apps in your local area, you'll attract a variety of participants, from coders and scientists to designers, storytellers, and more. You'll inspire and connect with like-minded individuals, nurturing a culture of exploration and creativity while supporting participants throughout their hackathon journey.
“Participants gained valuable skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation, which they can now apply in their personal and professional lives. The event also sparked a greater interest in STEM fields among young people, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. Overall, it strengthened our community’s commitment to addressing global challenges and highlighted the power of collective effort in driving positive change.” - Local Lead from Ibra, Oman
Expanding Your Global Community: Being a Local Lead isn't just about organizing an event; it's about being a part of something bigger. You will get the opportunity to join a global community that embraces collaboration. You’ll also get to grow and strengthen your event-planning and community-building skills.
Local Leads have the unique opportunity to learn with and from other NASA communities and initiatives that can help them grow professionally and empower them to become thought leaders in their city's tech, innovation, and creative communities. With the support of NASA’s free and open data and resources, Local Leads can help foster a culture of knowledge and creativity that resonates throughout their communities.
"Organizing the event, from designing posters to managing logistics, was intense but rewarding. It allowed me to sharpen my own leadership and communication skills, particularly in handling cultural and linguistic differences. This event was meaningful because it reinforced my passion for space and innovation while fostering a sense of community and global connection." - Local Lead from Fukaya, Japan
Apply Today!
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to make a difference, empower your local community, and contribute to advancing innovation as a NASA Space Apps Local Lead. The application deadline to be a Local Lead is June 1, 2025. Learn more and apply today!
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