Alibaba Cloud partners with ZetaChain to host Universal AI Hackathon across Asia Pacific
Alyssa Davidson
Posted: Nov 18, 2025 3:24 AM Updated: Nov 18, 2025 3:24 AM
Correction and fact check date: November 18, 2025, 3:24 AM
briefly
Alibaba Cloud and ZetaChain have launched an AI hackathon in Asia Pacific. This will allow developers to build cross-chain apps with Qwen AI and compete for grants of up to $200,000.
Cloud computing service provider Alibaba Cloud has announced a partnership with blockchain platform ZetaChain. ZetaChain is positioned as a universal blockchain with native connectivity to Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and other networks, providing a unified liquidity framework and streamlined user experience. Universal EVM allows developers to create applications that operate across multiple blockchains, supporting a more integrated crypto ecosystem.
Through this collaboration, the partners plan to work with LXDAO to launch the Universal AI Hackathon, which will provide grants of up to $200,000 to developers in the Asia Pacific region. This initiative is designed to provide a development environment for developers, mentors, and the community to experiment and innovate using ZetaChain’s Universal Blockchain along with Alibaba’s Qwen AI technology.
AI-driven hackathon to foster cross-chain universal app creation
The program consists of two stages. The first phase, running from November 24 to December 7, will consist of co-learning workshops where participants will explore ZetaChain’s core technologies, including Universal EVM, Universal Smart Contracts and ZetaChain Toolkit, along with Qwen AI integration. The curriculum combines structured classes with live sessions led by experts from ZetaChain and Alibaba Cloud.
The second phase, running from December 8 to December 21, is a casual hackathon where participants, individually or in teams, will apply their knowledge to design and prototype a universal app leveraging Qwen AI. Projects will be evaluated based on creativity and practical experimentation, and selected initiatives will be eligible to receive additional incubation support and ecosystem grants of up to $200,000 to expand the Universal Blockchain ecosystem.
Developers can build once on ZetaChain and deploy applications that interact with assets and apps across multiple chains such as Bitcoin, Arbitrum, BNB chain, Base, Solana, and more. ZetaChain’s Universal EVM allows creators to develop integrated multi-chain decentralized finance (DeFi) applications that extend beyond simple cross-chain swaps, with the option to integrate Qwen AI for intelligent automation and optimization.
Integrating Qwen AI into ZetaChain applications allows you to develop interactive, adaptive, and intelligent user experiences. This could include AI-powered wallets, agents, automated DeFi strategies, or multi-chain dashboards, merging AI capabilities with ZetaChain’s native cross-chain functionality and providing the opportunity to develop next-generation AI-powered Web3 applications.
This plan represents a significant expansion of ZetaChain’s presence across the Asia Pacific region. In collaboration with Alibaba Cloud, the program invites developers to envision AI-powered universal apps that operate seamlessly across blockchains, understand user intent, and respond intelligently. Applications for participation are now open, providing the opportunity to learn, build, and launch innovative solutions on the ZetaChain platform.
Alibaba Cloud has established a strong presence in the Asia Pacific region and is expanding its presence internationally, making it one of the leading cloud service providers globally.
Recognized for its advanced security protocols, technical expertise, and focus on innovation, Alibaba Cloud helps organizations manage the challenges of the digital environment. Its products include scalable cloud infrastructure for application hosting, database management, and large-scale transaction processing, as well as advanced AI and machine learning tools for real-time data analytics, predictive modeling, and automation. With a global network of data centers, Alibaba Cloud provides low-latency performance and high availability to customers around the world.
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About the author
As a dedicated journalist at MPost, Alisa specializes in the broad areas of cryptocurrencies, zero-knowledge proofs, investing, and Web3. With a keen eye for new trends and technologies, she provides comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers about the ever-evolving digital financial landscape.
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As MPost’s resident journalist, Alisa specializes in the broad areas of cryptocurrencies, zero-knowledge proofs, investing, and Web3. With a keen eye for new trends and technologies, she provides comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers about the ever-evolving digital financial landscape.
more articles