2026 Virginia Datathon set for Oct. 8-16
VITA's Office of Data Governance and Analytics (ODGA) team members are gearing up to host the 2026 Virginia Datathon, a weeklong hybrid event taking place Oct. 8–16. This annual gathering of innovative problem solvers offers the chance to transform public data into actionable insights that support real-world solutions for the Commonwealth.
The Datathon supports ODGA's mission to make public data both usable and impactful. Each year, the event brings together state workers, contractors and higher education students to address a key Commonwealth challenge using open data. The collaborative environment encourages diverse perspectives, cross-agency teamwork and the use of modern data practices championed by ODGA.
The 2026 theme is Beyond the Numbers: Building an Affordable Virginia. By analyzing public datasets, teams of between two–six members will explore one or more affordability issues and propose data-driven solutions that could strengthen the quality of life for Virginia residents.
Schedule and event format
The Datathon begins Thursday, Oct. 8, with a virtual kick-off meeting. The session will be recorded for those unable to attend live. An optional session with subject matter experts will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 13, offering teams additional insight into affordability issues and the public datasets available.
Throughout the week, teams will collaborate virtually to refine their ideas and develop their solutions. Each team must submit a one-page written summary of their solution by noon on Thursday, Oct. 15. The Datathon concludes with an in-person event on Friday, Oct. 16, hosted at Brightpoint Community College in Chester, Virginia.
All teams are required to participate in the final event, which is expected to last four to six hours. During that Oct. 16 gathering, teams must deliver a five-minute presentation to a panel of judges.
All solutions must be developed entirely within the Datathon's one-week timeframe. Judges will not accept concepts or materials created beforehand.
Help us spread the word
ODGA and VITA encourage agencies, institutions and partners across the state to share this event widely. The event is open to all Virginia residents interested in exploring statewide challenges, collaborating with fellow Virginians, and contributing ideas to help build a more affordable and innovative Commonwealth.
To learn more and register a team, visit the 2026 Virginia Datathon website. For questions, please contact ODGA at odga@odga.virginia.gov.