LocationsYoung innovators co-create digital solutions to tackle urban challenges
May 22, 2026
Ho Chi Minh City, 22 May 2026 – Today, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Grab Viet Nam launched the “GRAB the Future Hackathon”, under the theme “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Urban Living”, in collaboration with the National Innovation Center (NIC).
The programme invites Vietnamese youth aged 18 to 24 to develop innovative and practical digital solutions that respond to pressing urban challenges, including greener cities, climate resilience, and inclusive smart urban services.
As Viet Nam advances digital transformation, green growth, and innovation for sustainable development, the programme reflects a shared effort by UNDP and Grab Viet Nam to create more space for young people to build digital skills, test new ideas, and contribute practical solutions for more sustainable and inclusive urban development.
Mr. Ma Tuan Trong, Managing Director from Grab Vietnam said, “Supporting young people in adopting and developing technology is a key goal for Grab. We are thrilled to co-initiate the 'Grab the Future Hackathon” alongside the UNDP. This programme, to which we also have an opportunity to contribute our expertise, offers a practical platform for youth to learn, connect, and test innovative ideas. We hope the programme will inspire real-world solutions that generate positive impacts for local communities and society.”
Strengthening skills and connections for young people
The “GRAB the Future Hackathon” is expected to engage 200 participants through a nationwide call for applications. Over the coming month, participating youth teams will take part in a series of capacity-building sessions, including hands-on workshops and expert-led tech talks designed to strengthen skills in AI, data analytics, and product development.
The programme will culminate in a 36-hour national hackathon at the end of June 2026. During the hackathon, participating teams will develop digital solutions to real-world issues in sustainable urban development and climate adaptation, with guidance and direct feedback from industry mentors.
Beyond the technical activities, the programme will also create opportunities for young people to connect with mentors, experts, and like-minded peers in the innovation ecosystem. With the participation of mentors from Grab Viet Nam and experts from the wider ecosystem, the programme will provide young people with practical insights into technology, product development, and digital services. Through the programme, participants will also gain exposure to private-sector working environments and relevant career development pathways, including potential internship opportunities with Grab Viet Nam. The winning team will participate in a regional youth innovation forum, where they can exchange ideas and connect with young innovators from across Asia and the Pacific.
Advancing digital and green solutions for cities
Viet Nam’s rapid urbanisation has created new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and improved quality of life. At the same time, it has placed increasing pressure on urban infrastructure, mobility systems, public services, and the environment. In 2023, Viet Nam’s transport sector emitted 39.3 million tonnes of CO₂, accounting for around 11 percent of national emissions [1]. This points to the need for cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive approaches to urban development.
Digital technologies, when developed responsibly and inclusively, can help cities better understand challenges, improve access to services, optimize resources, and support more sustainable choices by people and communities. For example, digital platforms can provide first-mile/last-mile solutions to help increase public transit ridership. Also, they can encourage users to choose eco-friendly options for their journeys, helping reduce emissions while improving urban mobility. These technological advancements also create opportunities for young people to apply their creativity, technical skills, and local knowledge to contribute directly to national development priorities.
Dinh-Long Pham, Regional Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Coordinator, UNDP Asia-Pacific, shared, “Young people should not be seen only as beneficiaries of programmes, but as innovators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and equal partners in solving development challenges.”
The GRAB the Future Hackathon highlights the role of cross-sector collaboration in supporting youth-led innovation. By bringing together development partners, the private sector, innovation actors, mentors, and young people, the initiative aims to create a practical space for young innovators to test ideas, build skills, and contribute to more inclusive and sustainable urban futures.
Further information on the programme, application process, and upcoming activities will be updated on the official channels of UNDP in Viet Nam and Grab Vietnam.
For additional information, please contact:
Nguyen Viet Lan, UNDP Communications Analyst,
Email: nguyen.viet.lan@undp.org, phone: 0914436769
[1] The Asian Development Bank (ADB) - Asian Transport Outlook (2024), Transport and Climate Profile Viet Nam. Availabe: https://asiantransportobservatory.org/documents/223/Viet_Nam-transport-and-climate-policy.pdf
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