Free software gains prominence at the UN thanks to the UN Tech Over Hackathon 2026

Free Software Gains Prominence at the UN Thanks to the UN Tech Over Hackathon 2026

Madrid, July 2026

Author: Javier Lozano · CEO of Nanfor - Last updated: July 7, 2026

Open innovation continues to demonstrate its ability to create impact beyond the technological realm. A recent example was the UN Tech Over Hackathon 2026, an initiative promoted within the United Nations environment that brought together nearly 200 developers, technologists, and specialists from around the world to work on global challenges related to technology, sustainability, and digital transformation.

These types of initiatives reflect an increasingly evident trend: the strategic role of free and open-source software as key tools for developing scalable, collaborative, and accessible solutions for international organizations, public administrations, and businesses.

Open Source to Solve Global Challenges

During the hackathon, participants collaborated on various projects aimed at solving real problems, applying open methodologies and technologies based on free software.

The collaborative nature of the Open Source ecosystem allows professionals from different countries to work together, share knowledge, and accelerate the development of technological solutions with social and economic impact.

This open innovation model has been one of the factors driving the adoption of Linux, Kubernetes, OpenSearch, PostgreSQL, and a multitude of Open Source technologies that are now part of critical infrastructures worldwide.

The Role of Linux Professional Institute

Among the organizations involved in the initiative, the participation of Linux Professional Institute (LPI) as a co-organizer of the event stood out.

LPI is one of the most recognized international organizations in the field of Linux and Open Source professional certification, promoting the development of technological skills based on open standards for years. Its participation in international initiatives of this type reflects the growing relevance of training and professionalization within the free software ecosystem.

Nanfor is an official partner of Linux Professional Institute in Spain, which allows us to offer LPI training and certifications with the support and quality required by international standards. You can verify this in the official LPI partner directory.

The Growth of the Linux and Open Source Ecosystem

Free software continues to expand its presence in strategic areas such as:

• Cloud Computing
• Artificial Intelligence
• DevOps
• Cybersecurity
• IT Infrastructure
• Data and Analytics
• Edge Computing

Today, a large part of the digital services used by companies and public organizations rely on Open Source technologies, making skills related to Linux and open development increasingly in demand by the labor market.

Open Source Training and Certification

The evolution of the Open Source ecosystem has also increased the need for specialized profiles capable of designing, administering, and maintaining infrastructures based on open technologies.

In this context, Linux Professional Institute certifications continue to be an international reference for professionals seeking to validate their knowledge in Linux, system administration, and Open Source technologies. As an official LPI partner, Nanfor offers preparation for these certifications with expert guidance. Check out all our manufacturers and accreditations.

A Model of Innovation Based on Collaboration

The UN Tech Over Hackathon 2026 highlights how collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the Open Source philosophy continue to drive technological innovation on a global scale.

Beyond the projects developed during the event, initiatives like this demonstrate that free software remains a fundamental tool for addressing some of the most relevant technological challenges of our time. The future of innovation not only involves technology but also the ability of communities to collaborate, share knowledge, and build open solutions for everyone.

📰 Read the original LPI news: LPI at the UN: Enabling FOSS Ecosystems Globally