We are thrilled to announce that the Veterans Health Hackathon 2026 applications are now open! Apply today; applications are now extended through October 28, 2026: Application Link
Now in its third year, the Hackathon brings together Veterans, clinicians, entrepreneurs, technologists, students, and industry partners to develop solutions to real-world challenges in Veteran health care. This event is open to everyone; VA affiliation is not required. In 2025, the Hackathon attracted 946 applications, 464 registrants, and 398 attendees across 41 states and territories, while growing participation by 31% and increasing mentorship by 123% compared to the previous year. Join a growing community working together to develop solutions for Veteran health care's most pressing challenges.
The 2026 Hackathon
Powered by Microsoft Artificial Intelligence Technology and in collaboration with VHA Innovation Ecosystem and The American Legion, Tampa VA Medical Center will be hosting the Hackathon November 13-15, 2026, at the Hilton Tampa Downtown, 211 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL.
Seasoned mentors and Veterans will guide teams as they address real-world problems. Independent judges will then evaluate each team's prototype, with winners advancing to additional stages for further concept validation and prototype creation.
Tracks
This year’s Hackathon tackles key challenges by focusing problem solving on three tracks:
- Timely Access to Care. Accelerating access by reducing barriers, improving care pathways, and shortening the time from need identification to care delivery.
- Optimizing Enterprise-Wide Costs and Operational Efficiency. Modernizing operations to increase efficiency, reduce waste, optimize resources, and streamline clinical workflows to improve Veteran care.
- Hiring Faster and More Competitively. Strengthening recruitment, onboarding, and enhancing career pathways to build a stable, high-performing workforce and ensure continuity of care.
For questions, please email VeteransHealthVentureStudio@va.gov
