Innovation Challenge 2025 launches with over $2M in prizes

More than $2 million in prizes are up for grabs as Innovation Challenge 2025 was officially launched Friday, bringing together young innovators, entrepreneurs and developers from across the country to tackle real-world problems with home-grown technical solutions.
The competition is being held under the theme “Transitioning to Innovation”, serving as a key platform for students, developers, engineers, entrepreneurs and creatives to address critical national challenges through innovation and technology.

Hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister’s Industry and Innovation Unit, Innovative Challenge runs from July 4 – 6 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC). Winners will receive substantial cash prizes of $1.5 million for first place, $750,000 for second, and $500,000 for third.
Beyond monetary rewards, participants will gain access to mentorship, industry exposure, and opportunities for long-term development.
Described as a bridge between ideas and implementation, Innovation Challenge aims to convert creativity into measurable impact. Participants will be expected to showcase their coding and technical skills, along with critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving abilities.
This year, 11 teams are participating in the three-day competition which is primarily sponsored by SBM Offshore.
Speaking at the launch, Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, outlined the importance of the competition, and emphasised the role of technology in national development.
“It is a vehicle for bridging the gap between ideas and implementation, between innovation and impact. Over the next three days, we will witness 11 teams from Regions Three, Four, and Six rise to this moment — showcasing their coding and technical abilities, as well as their capacity to think critically, collaborate effectively, and propose scalable solutions that address key national challenges.”
According to the Prime Minster, since the inception of this challenge, more than 60 teams have participated, leaving with invaluable skills, increased confidence and a stronger sense of self-worth. Amidst this, he added, the real value lies beyond the numbers, and lies in the growing community of young innovators who are beginning to view technology not just as a tool, but as a national asset and one that can transform communities, industries, and lives.
The Prime Minister further emphasised the Government’s commitment to building a knowledge-based digital economy that is inclusive, adaptive and future-ready.
“Since assuming office in 2020, we have prioritised investment in human capital, particularly in STEM education — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — as well as ICT (Information and Communications Technology) training and digital infrastructure. Through the ICT Access and E-Services Programme, we’ve brought connectivity and digital services to some of our most underserved populations in hinterland and riverine communities.”
Meanwhile he also used the opportunity to call on the private sector to support innovation-driven initiatives like the Innovation Challenge.
“I urge members of the private sector to invest in the future of our nation. Support innovation. Sponsor hackathons. Offer internships. Open doors. Help us build the economy. Every idea leads to invention, and creativity leads to careers.”
He stressed that these efforts are part of a deliberate strategy to embed innovation into every aspect of society, noting:
“Each of these initiatives form part of a broader mission — and that mission is to ensure that every young Guyanese, regardless of where they come from, has the tools, opportunities and support to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The Innovation Challenge is a vivid reflection of that mission.”
Maryam Bacchus, winner of last year’s challenge, offered her experiences and heartfelt advice to this year’s competitors.
She stated that throughout this period they are going to be exhausted staring at solutions for hours and not knowing how to solve them.
Despite this she highlighted that it’s not about the problems — it’s about how you push through them. Don’t focus on winning; focus on learning. This challenge isn’t just about building apps — it’s about giving you the confidence to keep going.”
“Each one of you has the potential to change this country with your solutions. Let’s use the next few days to prove that Guyana has world-class talent right here.”