Break Through: GDI’s Annual Virtual Hackathon

It’s not about getting it right—it’s about getting in there.

Ready to try something new? Whether you’ve never written a single line of code or you’ve been building for years, the GDI Hackathon is your chance to break through—to challenges, to new skills, to your own potential.

This is a failure-friendly event for people who want to experiment, build, and grow in a supportive, welcoming space. You don’t need experience. You just need curiosity and the courage to start.

Hackathons are collaborative events where people come together to design, code, and create solutions. At GDI, it’s not about competition—it’s about learning, connecting, and seeing what’s possible when you give yourself permission to try (but there are prizes!!).

Come as you are. Break through what’s holding you back. Build something you’re proud of.

What to Expect:

• Try New Skills: Explore coding, design, or project management in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment.
• Pitch Your Ideas: Propose your concepts and help shape team projects from the ground up.
• Collaborate: Work closely with teammates and mentors to build something meaningful together.
• Learn by Doing: Gain hands-on experience and confidence through real-time problem-solving.
• Connect: Meet a community of curious beginners and experienced pros ready to support your growth.

What our Past Hackers Say:

 “I participated in my first-ever hackathon…I learned so much, met some awesome people, and had a ton of fun!"

“This was my first hackathon, and after listening, collaborating, networking, and building - I now recognize I can be successful within this field."

"Thank you, Girl Develop It, for your commitment to creating spaces of inclusivity and empowerment for those of us living on the periphery.”

“……all I want to do is really learn to code. It's so inspiring to be in a space with such creative, bright, and enthusiastic women! I am looking for a group who will welcome a newbie.”

______________________

GDI Hackathon Information

Read all about our Hackathons on our blog: https://girldevelopit.com/blog/why-get-wired-for-wellness/ and https://girldevelopit.com/blog/what-makes-the-gdi-hackathon-different/. 

What's a hackathon?

Never attended a hackathon before...but always been a little curious. This is the hackathon for you!

Traditionally, a hackathon is an event in which programmers, graphic designers, content strategists, interface designers, project managers, subject matter experts and more collaborate intensively on projects for a dedicated amount of time.

What's different about a GDI hackathon?

If you’ve ever been to a GDI class or event, you know that we prioritize a few important values. Our values are embedded in all we do, so this hackathon is no different! What you can expect: a friendly, welcoming, and inclusive environment that is supportive, values all questions and is judgment-free! We welcome beginners of all levels and seek to make this event as accessible as possible. Here’s how:

• We want beginners! It's hard when you're first starting in tech. There's so much to learn, everyone seems to know what they're doing, and no one has time for your questions, right? Not here; this hackathon is all about giving beginners a way to level up their skills and their confidence. 

This event occurs over two weeks and is designed to engage both women and non-binary adults who are new to coding and those who have been at it for years. 

Why should I join?

• Meet new people! Hackathons are one of the best ways to meet new people and build meaningful relationships with them that will last beyond a weekend.
• You'll be learning, and so will everyone else! This is a chance to try out a hackathon with beginners like you and where everyone is working on exciting projects with support from mentors.
• The community is irreplaceable. You'll meet a bunch of attendees who are interested in your success. The GDI community is truly inclusive and supportive of all its members.
• Level up your skills. Hackathons are a great way to challenge yourself to build something with constraints.

________________________

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hackathon?

A hackathon is an event in which programmers, graphic designers, content strategists, interface designers, and project managers collaborate intensively on projects.

Or as we like to call it: an event where people work together to find new (sometimes inelegant) solutions to a problem.

Who should attend?

If you’ve ever taken a GDI class, dove into an online tech tutorial, or any other coding class or event this is a great opportunity to take the skills you’ve learned and apply them to a collaborative project working with like-minded individuals.

Even if you haven’t attended any of these events or participated in these groups, you’re still totally welcome! Beginners and the tech-curious are especially encouraged to attend, as are experienced technologists who are interested in sharing their knowledge and skills while working on projects that they are passionate about.

Can I propose a project to work on?

Absolutely! Any participant can propose a project idea for a team to work on prior to the event. We only ask that project leaders be present at GDI Virtual Hackathon for all days of the event. Tuesday November 15th will be our brainstorming session, and project leaders will have the opportunity to present their idea to the group at large. Participants can choose which projects they would like to work on then.

How do I find a team?

We are hosting an Idea Generation & Team Formation event on November 15th. This event will be time for individuals to pitch ideas and gather up with others who are interested. We will host this event during our opening day of the hackathon on November 16th, and individuals can pitch their ideas and recruit members directly on Slack. (see details below). If you have trouble finding a team, we will have volunteers at our Help Desk who can help you connect. 

Is there a code of conduct?

Yes, all participants must abide by the Girl Develop It Code of Conduct.

I can’t make the whole event. Can I still join?

Yes! If you can only make one day and want to come, you should definitely come and add to the project as much as you can.

Do I need to work all night to participate in a hackathon?

No! This GDI Virtual Hackathon is spread out over a few weeks and gives you time to learn, build and connect. Our non-competitive environment encourages you to work when you are available.