The GTCO Squad Hackathon Program 2026 is one of Nigeria’s most exciting innovation competitions for university students passionate about technology, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving.
Organized by Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) in collaboration with its fintech subsidiary HabariPay Ltd, this hackathon provides a powerful platform for young innovators to build real-world solutions and compete for cash prizes worth up to ₦10 million.
If you are a Nigerian student looking to showcase your tech skills, gain exposure, and potentially launch a career in fintech, this opportunity is for you.
About the GTCO Squad Hackathon Program
The GTCO Squad Hackathon (also known as “Take on Squad Hackathon 3.0”) is a national innovation challenge designed to bring together developers, designers, and entrepreneurs to solve real-world problems using technology.
Now in its third edition, the 2026 program focuses on the theme:
“Smart Systems: The Intelligent Economy”
This theme encourages participants to build intelligent, data-driven solutions that transform how people and businesses interact with money and digital platforms.
Participants will collaborate in teams to create scalable solutions across industries such as:
Financial technology (FinTech)
Healthcare innovation
Digital commerce
Financial inclusion
The hackathon is part of GTCO’s broader mission to promote innovation and empower young African talent in the digital economy.
Key Details of the Program
Host Country: Nigeria
Eligible Applicants: Nigerian university students
Program Type: Hackathon / Competition
Edition: 3rd (2026)
Reward: ₦10 million prize pool + mentorship + exposure
Application Deadline: Not specified
Benefits of the GTCO Squad Hackathon
Participating in the GTCO Squad Hackathon comes with several financial and career-building benefits.
1. Cash Prizes (₦10 Million Total)
Winning teams will receive:
1st Prize: ₦5,000,000
2nd Prize: ₦3,000,000
3rd Prize: ₦2,000,000
These prizes are shared among team members and awarded through GTBank utility cards.
2. National Recognition
Top teams gain visibility through GTCO and Squad communication channels, helping participants build strong personal and professional brands.
3. Hands-on Experience
Participants will work with real fintech tools, including Squad APIs, to develop practical solutions for real-world challenges.
4. Career Opportunities
The hackathon opens doors to:
Internship opportunities
Job placements
Networking with industry experts
Potential collaboration with tech leaders
5. Skill Development
Participants gain valuable experience in:
Software development
UI/UX design
Problem-solving
Team collaboration
Product pitching
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the GTCO Squad Hackathon 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Be a University Student
You must be currently enrolled in a recognized Nigerian university.
2. Form a Team
Teams must consist of 2 to 4 members
Cross-disciplinary teams are encouraged
3. Technical Skill Requirement
At least one team member should have a background in:
Computer Science
Engineering
Data Science
Or any related technical field
4. Valid Student Identification
Each participant must provide a valid student ID for verification.
5. One Team Rule
Applicants can only belong to one team throughout the competition.
Focus Areas for Projects
Participants are expected to build innovative solutions in areas such as:
AI-powered financial automation
Fraud detection and security systems
Digital payment solutions
Fintech applications using APIs
Tools that enhance financial inclusion
These solutions should be scalable and capable of addressing real-life problems in Nigeria and beyond.
How the Hackathon Works
The GTCO Squad Hackathon is a collaborative and competitive event where teams:
Register and form teams
Submit innovative ideas
Build working prototypes
Present solutions to judges
Compete for top prizes
Shortlisted teams are typically invited to participate in the main hackathon event, where final solutions are developed and showcased.
Why You Should Apply
The GTCO Squad Hackathon is more than just a competition—it’s a career-defining opportunity.
Here’s why you shouldn’t miss it:
Gain real-world tech experience
Win significant cash prizes
Build a strong portfolio
Network with industry leaders
Get noticed by top employers
It is especially valuable for students interested in fintech, startups, and digital innovation.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning
To stand out in the competition, consider the following:
1. Focus on Real Problems
Choose a problem that affects a large number of people and offer a practical solution.
2. Build a Strong Team
Combine technical, design, and business skills within your team.
3. Leverage Technology
Use modern tools like AI, APIs, and automation to enhance your solution.
4. Create a Scalable Solution
Ensure your idea can grow beyond a prototype into a real product.
5. Prepare a Solid Pitch
Communicate your idea clearly and confidently to judges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the GTCO Squad Hackathon free to apply?
Yes, participation in the hackathon is completely free.
Can polytechnic students apply?
The program is primarily targeted at university students.
Is coding required?
Yes, at least one team member must have technical skills.
Can I apply alone?
No, you must be part of a team of 2–4 members.
Final Thoughts
The GTCO Squad Hackathon Program 2026 is a golden opportunity for Nigerian students to showcase their creativity, build impactful solutions, and gain recognition in the tech ecosystem.
With a ₦10 million prize pool, career opportunities, and hands-on experience, this hackathon is one of the best innovation programs currently available for students in Nigeria.
If you are passionate about technology and solving real-world problems, this is your chance to shine.