The NASA Space Apps Challenge is the largest annual global hackathon aimed at fostering innovation through international collaboration. This two-day event allows participants to leverage NASA’s free and open data, along with data from its Space Agency Partners, to address real-world problems on Earth and in space. The primary objective is to promote transparency, participation, and global collaboration as part of NASA’s Open Government Initiative. The NASA Space Apps Challenge covers a wide range of topics, including both Earth and space science and technology. Participants are tasked with challenges that vary in complexity and subject matter, from creating artistic visualizations of NASA data to developing informational apps and software programs. The event has expanded to include arts and humanities challenges, alongside technology challenges, to appeal to a broader audience and encourage diverse participation. The hackathon is delivered in a hybrid format, with participants gathering at hundreds of in-person and virtual local events around the world. The event relies heavily on Local Leads, who organize these locally-focused events to increase community engagement and awareness. Participants gain valuable skills, including data analysis, software development, and teamwork. They also benefit from the opportunity to collaborate with international teams and learn directly from NASA and space agency subject matter experts.