Hack4Freedom 2026 Set to Launch in Lagos Nigeria!
Lagos, Nigeria – April 9, 2026.
The Bitcoin community in Africa and beyond just got a major boost for women builders. Hack4Freedom has officially announced the first two stops of its 2026 series: Lagos, Nigeria (May 16–30) and São Paulo, Brazil (July 12–26).
Organized by Evento, this women-only hybrid hackathon series trains female developers in the Global South. To create next-generation open-source freedom software using Bitcoin, Lightning, Nostr, and eCash protocols. No prior Bitcoin experience is required.
Applications are open now.
What Is Hack4Freedom?
Hack4Freedom addresses a critical gap: women make up roughly 3% of global open-source contributors. And less than 8% in the Global South.
Yet women represent the majority of the world’s unbanked population. And face daily challenges around financial exclusion, censorship, and digital privacy.
The two-week hybrid program combines:
- Week 1: In-person kickoff with workshops, protocol deep-dives, and talks.
- Week 2: Remote building, mentorship, code reviews, and standups.
- Demo Day: In-person project showcase, judging, $5,000 in prizes, and direct connections to jobs, grants, and fellowships.
Participants will leave with GitHub-ready open-source prototypes, real-world skills, and a supportive network of women builders. Across Africa and Latin America. The program is completely free for eligible women with basic development skills or strong motivation to learn.
2026 Schedule: Lagos First, Then São Paulo
- Lagos, Nigeria – May 16–30, 2026.
- São Paulo, Brazil – July 12–26, 2026.
More cities across the Global South to be announced soon. The series builds directly on the success of the 2025 edition in Kaduna, Nigeria. Where 20 women built 8 open-source prototypes addressing local issues like digital identity and censorship resistance.
Major Sponsors Btrust and Vinteum Back the Mission
Hack4Freedom 2026 is made possible by major sponsors Btrust (Africa-focused Bitcoin ecosystem builder) and Vinteum (leading Bitcoin organization in Brazil).
Why This Matters for African Bitcoin Development?
Africa grows fast in global Bitcoin adoption. Yet women remain dramatically underrepresented in the technical layers that power it.
Hack4Freedom directly tackles this by providing hands-on training, global mentorship. And paid opportunities to ship real code.
For the Lagos edition, the focus aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s vibrant Bitcoin scene. From everyday financial freedom tools to solutions for local challenge.
How to Apply for Hack4Freedom 2026?
Hack4Freedom 2026 is an exclusive opportunity for women developers in the Global South to enter the open‑source Bitcoin ecosystem. Here’s everything you need to know to apply and maximize your chances.
Who Can Apply?
Hack4Freedom is open to women developers (18+) from the Global South, including Nigeria, Kenya, Brazil, and other African and emerging‑market countries.
You do not need:
Prior Bitcoin experience
A pre‑formed team (individuals are welcome)
Applications are strongly encouraged early, as spots are limited.
Application Steps (Simple & Direct)
Visit the official application page:
→ Apply to Hack4Freedom 2026Create an account or log in using your preferred email.
Fill out the form with:
Basic personal and contact details
Your technical background (languages, frameworks, projects)
A short motivation statement explaining why you want to build freedom‑focused, open‑source Bitcoin software
Submit your application before the deadline (early submissions are prioritized).
Check your email for confirmation, follow‑up, and onboarding instructions.
Format Options: Hybrid Participation
Hack4Freedom offers a hybrid format:
In‑person participation (Week 1) in locations such as Lagos, with hands‑on kickoffs, mentor sessions, and networking.
Fully remote participation for those who cannot travel but still want to build with the global cohort.
Regardless of format, you’ll receive:
Structured learning in Bitcoin and open protocols.
Mentorship from experienced Bitcoin developers.
Team‑based or solo project development.
A final showcase of your work.
Join the Movement
Hack4Freedom is not just another hackathon. It’s building the next generation of female Bitcoin contributors who shape freedom technology for billions.
With Lagos leading the charge in May 2026. African women developers have a clear path to move from users to builders in the open-source Bitcoin ecosystem.
Apply today and be part of the solution. Follow Hack4Freedom on X for more updates.