A global initiative powered by Microsoft technologies, Sidara’s first-ever hackathon brought together colleagues from across its global network of firms to address one of the most pressing challenges facing clients today: decarbonization.

Over 100 colleagues from across Sidara companies took part in the virtual event, using AI, data and cloud tools to turn complex sustainability challenges into practical, client-ready solutions.

Delivered in close partnership with Microsoft, the hackathon not only generated a range of innovative and scalable ideas, but also strengthened AI and data capabilities across the group – unlocking greater value from existing information and demonstrating the real-world impact of digital transformation.

Using Microsoft’s platforms, including Innovation Studio to support collaboration and Microsoft Fabric to enable data and AI workflows, participants worked across geographies and disciplines to address challenges facing the built environment. The initiative reflects Sidara firms’ ongoing focus on bringing together expertise across design, engineering, advisory and digital to deliver more sustainable outcomes for clients.

Thirteen ideas were initially pitched, with eight progressing through to development. Final submissions were reviewed by a cross‑pillar panel representing Sidara’s Digital, Innovation and Sustainability Councils, reinforcing a collaborative and integrated approach to innovation.

The winning teams were:

Beyond the solutions themselves, the hackathon highlighted the power of cross‑company collaboration, with teams forming organically to develop concepts grounded in real client challenges. By bringing together expertise from across architecture, engineering, data and advisory services, participants were able to translate ideas into actionable propositions with the potential for real-world applications.

As Dr. Raja Kadiyala, Global Head of Digital Solutions, and Innovation Council Chair at Sidara, noted:

“It was great seeing client-centric ideas pitched, with high-energy, cross-pillar teams forming organically to create solutions that will benefit our clients. This was one of the most well-received events I have been part of, and we look forward to doing more in the future.”

Reflecting on the partnership, Mohammed Kassem, Microsoft Egypt General Manager, added:

“At Microsoft, we believe meaningful innovation happens when diverse expertise is brought together to solve real-world challenges. Sidara’s hackathon demonstrated how AI, data, and cross-disciplinary collaboration can accelerate progress toward sustainability goals and unlock new opportunities for clients. We are proud to support initiatives that empower teams to transform ideas into impactful solutions for a more sustainable future.”

The hackathon marks an important step in strengthening Sidara’s digital and innovation ecosystem – bringing people, data, and technology closer together to deliver smarter, more sustainable outcomes for clients and communities.