The World’s Largest “2025 NASA Space Apps Hackathon” Kaohsiung Briefing Kicks Off - Industry-Government-Academy Join Forces with Startups to Challenge the Global Stage

The Kaohsiung briefing of the world’s largest “2025 NASA Space Apps Hackathon” officially kicked off, highlighting Taiwan’s growing role in global innovation. Professor Jiun-Huei Proty Wu, Regional Director of NASA Hackathon Taiwan, together with TASA Director of Space Education Tsung-Sheng Cheng, introduced the rules and spirit of the competition. Past global champions, including “Ani’s Cuff” (2021) and “$quality_over_quantity” (2023), shared their experiences, while startups showcased AI, big data, and no-code platforms, creating a vibrant exchange of ideas. Professor Wu emphasized Kaohsiung’s transformation into an international base of innovation, where young teams can connect local creativity to the global stage.

The Kaohsiung City Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the hackathon as part of its broader strategy to foster an international startup ecosystem. Economic Development Bureau Director Tai-hsiang Liao underscored the city’s entrepreneurial advantages, noting that the event strengthens collaboration among youth teams, aligns solutions with industry needs, and cultivates international talent. The hackathon is expected to accelerate the path from campus innovation to entrepreneurial ventures, promoting both local development and global competitiveness.

In addition, industry leaders and base partners were invited to present innovative technologies, further bridging startups with global challenges. PIXNET CEO Gordon Zheng highlighted AI recommendation technologies to enhance global applications, while Profet AI Assistant Vice President of Technology Chi-Ming Huang stressed innovation’s role in sustaining Taiwan’s manufacturing edge. MEGABAY CEO Alex Chung introduced the “0-1 Ambition Plan,” designed to transform student creativity into entrepreneurial outcomes, reinforcing Kaohsiung’s position as a center of innovation.

Registration closes October 5, with the opening and networking event on October 3 and competition rounds on October 4-5. Local winners and global nominees will be announced October 13, followed by global selections in November and the awards ceremony in January 2026, featuring Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Excellence prizes.