The Green Hackathon aimed to empower youth and strengthen their role in advancing sustainable development and fostering a green economy. As a direct outcome of the event, 15 green initiatives were awarded 2,500 EUR each, along with equipment and ongoing support to ensure their long-term success and positive impact. These initiatives, spanning the energy, water, agriculture, and environment sectors, demonstrate remarkable creativity in addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the regions of Azraq and Zarqa. Each project reflects their commitment to creating sustainable solutions, offering impactful ways to optimize resources, protect ecosystems, and drive positive environmental change.

The GreenLinks project has played a crucial role in empowering youth in the agriculture and environmental sectors, providing intensive educational training aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Approximately 600 male and female youth from Azraq and Zarqa have participated in this training, gaining the skills to create sustainable, meaningful change within their communities.

The Green Hackathon officially launched on Thursday, February 13th, 2025, under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Mo’awiya Al- Radaideh, Minister of Environment, and attended by his Deputy, H.E. Dr. Jehad Sawaeer, Secretary General of the Ministry of Environment. The event was also attended by representatives from the European Union, as well as key project partners EDAMA and Climate Action Network - CAN, alongside numerous representatives from private and public institutions who expressed their support for this significant initiative.

“The primary objective today is to empower Jordanian youth by guiding them towards self-employment within the green economy, encouraging them to launch their own ventures that provide innovative environmental solutions. These initiatives not only contribute to their economic empowerment but also create green job opportunities, particularly in the Zarqa Governorate and Azraq District, areas with significant potential for green project development. Additionally, these projects help in recycling waste materials, utilizing them effectively, and reducing the import of raw materials from outside Jordan. This approach serves as a model for channeling the energy of young people, enabling them in alignment with the royal vision for achieving sustainable economic development in Jordan,” said H.E. Nayef Stetieh, CEO and Founder of the Business Development Center. 

"Innovation is key to achieving the targets of the European Green Deal and Jordan’s Green Growth National Action Plans. The Green Hackathon fuels collaboration and creativity, turning ideas into practical green solutions. The EU supports these initiatives, recognizing innovation as essential for tackling climate change and fostering inclusive green growth," said Hanina Ben Bernou, Attaché for Green Business, Innovation and Connectivity at the Delegation of the European Union to Jordan.

We are also grateful to the German Jordanian University - GJU, where the Green Hackathon activities were held. The university generously provided its Innovation Lab facilities, including 3D printers and laser cutters, to help participants develop their innovative solutions. Additionally, academic staff from GJU participated as mentors, offering invaluable guidance throughout the event. Additionally, the university’s students organized several activities to engage and support the teams during the event.

The Business Development Center remains committed to empowering youth in the transition to a sustainable future. The success of the Green Hackathon underscores the potential of young innovators to make a meaningful, lasting impact on their communities and the environment.