The Grace Hopper Celebration (GHC) returns in 2026 as one of the world’s largest gatherings focused on women and non-binary people in technology. Scheduled for October 27–30, 2026, this four-day event brings together thousands of technologists, students, and industry leaders. Whether you are a first-time attendee or a seasoned GHC veteran, this guide covers everything you need to know — from registration to the Career Expo and beyond.
What Is the Grace Hopper Celebration?
The Grace Hopper Celebration is an annual conference produced by AnitaB.org. It honors the legacy of Admiral Grace Hopper, a pioneering computer scientist and U.S. Navy officer. The event creates a space where women and non-binary technologists can learn, connect, and grow professionally.
Each year, the conference draws tens of thousands of participants from around the globe. In 2026, the event is expected to be one of the most expansive editions yet. Attendees range from undergraduate students to senior engineers and C-suite executives.
Additionally, GHC is known for its inclusive culture. It welcomes allies and professionals at all stages of their careers. Therefore, if you are curious about attending, there is truly something for everyone.
Key Event Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | Grace Hopper Celebration 2026 |
| Dates | October 27–30, 2026 |
| Format | In-person + Virtual (Hybrid) |
| Location | To be confirmed by AnitaB.org |
| Organizer | AnitaB.org |
| Target Audience | Women and non-binary technologists, students, allies |
| Primary Focus Areas | Career development, technical sessions, networking |
Registration: How to Sign Up for GHC 2026
Registration for GHC 2026 opens in phases. Early bird tickets typically offer the best pricing. However, even standard-rate tickets provide full access to the event’s core programming.
There are several ticket types available. Students and recent graduates can access discounted rates. Professionals can register as individuals or through their companies. Many large tech organizations sponsor employee attendance, so it is worth checking with your employer before purchasing a ticket independently.
Here is a general overview of what registration tiers tend to look like:
| Ticket Type | Who It Is For | Typical Price Range |
| Student | Enrolled students | $100–$250 |
| Academic | Faculty and researchers | $300–$450 |
| Professional | Industry professionals | $700–$1,100 |
| Virtual | Remote attendees | Lower than in-person |
| Corporate Group | Company-sponsored teams | Varies by package |
To register, visit the official AnitaB.org website and follow the GHC 2026 registration link. You will need to create an account or log in if you already have one. Payment is accepted online, and confirmation is sent via email.
Additionally, scholarship opportunities are available through AnitaB.org for those who face financial barriers. The Hopper Grant program has historically helped thousands of students and early-career professionals attend at little to no cost. Applications for scholarships are separate from the registration process and open earlier in the year.
Sessions and Programming: What to Expect
GHC 2026 features a rich program that spans technical talks, leadership panels, and community workshops. Sessions are organized by track, making it easier to build a schedule that matches your interests and career goals.
Technical Tracks
Technical sessions cover a wide range of topics. Attendees can expect talks on artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, data engineering, cloud infrastructure, and software development. These sessions are led by engineers and researchers from top companies and institutions worldwide.
Sessions at GHC tend to be beginner-friendly while still offering depth for experienced professionals. Therefore, you do not need to be an expert to benefit from attending.
Leadership and Professional Development
Beyond the technical content, GHC offers a strong lineup of leadership-focused sessions. Topics include navigating workplace challenges, building inclusive teams, salary negotiation, and career advancement strategies.
Keynote speakers at GHC are typically high-profile leaders from the technology industry. Past editions have featured executives from companies like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon. The 2026 keynote lineup has not yet been announced, but it is expected to follow the same tradition of inspiring and thought-provoking presentations.
Community and Affinity Groups
GHC also hosts sessions and meetups for specific communities. These include groups centered around Black women in tech, Latinx technologists, LGBTQ+ professionals, women with disabilities, and more. These sessions create spaces for deeper conversations and peer connection.
Workshops and Hands-On Labs
Interactive workshops give attendees the chance to practice new skills in a structured environment. Topics vary from resume reviews to technical skill-building exercises. Space in workshops is limited, so signing up early is strongly recommended once the session catalog opens.
The Career Expo: Connecting Talent with Opportunity
One of the most anticipated parts of GHC is the Career Expo. It is one of the largest technology job fairs in the world. Hundreds of companies set up booths to meet potential candidates, share job openings, and conduct on-the-spot interviews.
Who Attends the Career Expo?
Companies of all sizes participate in the Career Expo. Fortune 500 corporations, government agencies, startups, and nonprofits all recruit at GHC. The range of roles available spans software engineering, product management, data science, UX design, IT, and more.
Tips for Making the Most of the Career Expo
- Research participating companies before you arrive.
- Bring multiple printed copies of your resume.
- Prepare a concise personal introduction that highlights your skills and goals.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the expo floor is large and requires a lot of walking.
- Follow up with recruiters via LinkedIn or email after the event.
- Take notes on conversations so you can personalize your follow-up messages.
Additionally, many companies hold information sessions and office hours at GHC. These are separate from the expo floor and offer a more relaxed setting to learn about company culture and available roles.
Networking at GHC 2026
Networking is at the heart of the GHC experience. The event creates a rare environment where thousands of like-minded professionals gather in one place. Opportunities to connect happen everywhere — in session lines, at meals, during official networking events, and even in hotel lobbies.
GHC typically features structured networking events such as speed networking rounds, mentor-mentee meetups, and evening receptions. However, some of the most meaningful connections happen organically throughout the day.
The conference app, which is usually available before the event begins, allows attendees to browse profiles, schedule meetings, and access the full session calendar. It is a valuable tool, so download it as soon as it becomes available.
Virtual Attendance: Joining GHC 2026 Remotely
GHC has maintained a hybrid format since expanding its virtual offerings. For those who cannot travel to the in-person venue, virtual attendance provides access to livestreamed keynotes and selected sessions. It also includes a virtual Career Expo and online networking opportunities.
Virtual tickets are significantly more affordable. Therefore, remote attendance is a great option for students, those with limited travel budgets, or international participants who face visa or scheduling constraints.
However, in-person attendance does offer an experience that the virtual format cannot fully replicate. The energy of the expo floor, the spontaneous hallway conversations, and the sense of community are difficult to reproduce online.
Planning Your GHC 2026 Trip: Practical Tips
If you plan to attend in person, early preparation makes a big difference. Below are some practical pointers to keep in mind.
Book Early
Hotels near the GHC venue fill up quickly. As soon as the event location is confirmed by AnitaB.org, check for a discounted hotel block offered through the conference. These rooms are set aside at reduced rates for attendees and tend to sell out fast.
Dress Comfortably
GHC spans four days with back-to-back sessions, expo walking, and evening events. Comfortable, professional attire works best. Layers are helpful, as large convention centers can vary in temperature throughout the day.
Set Your Goals Ahead of Time
With so much happening at once, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Before you arrive, write down two or three specific goals. These might include landing a job interview, attending a particular workshop, or meeting five new professionals in your field. Having clear goals helps you make intentional choices about how to spend your time.
Take Care of Yourself
GHC is exciting, but it is also exhausting. Build in short breaks during the day. Stay hydrated, eat regular meals, and get enough sleep each night. A well-rested attendee is a more effective networker and learner.
Scholarships and Financial Assistance
AnitaB.org is committed to making GHC accessible. The Hopper Grant provides financial support to students and early-career professionals from underrepresented groups. Grant recipients typically receive complimentary registration and, in some cases, travel and lodging assistance.
To apply for the 2026 Hopper Grant, watch the official AnitaB.org website for the application opening date. Applications are competitive, so submit yours early and ensure it is complete and thoughtfully written.
Additionally, many universities and employers offer supplemental funding for GHC attendance. Check with your school’s career center or your company’s learning and development team to explore what support may be available to you.
Conclusion
The Grace Hopper Celebration 2026, taking place October 27–30, is a landmark event for women and non-binary professionals in technology. It offers an unparalleled combination of technical learning, career opportunities, leadership development, and community building. Registration opens in phases, with scholarships available for those who need financial support. The Career Expo connects thousands of candidates with hundreds of employers, making it one of the most powerful job fairs in the tech world. Whether you attend in person or virtually, GHC 2026 promises to be an inspiring and career-defining experience. Plan early, set clear goals, and take full advantage of everything the event has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is GHC 2026?
The Grace Hopper Celebration 2026 is scheduled for October 27–30, 2026. The event runs for four days and includes both in-person and virtual attendance options.
How do I register for GHC 2026?
Registration is done through the official AnitaB.org website. Tickets are available in student, academic, professional, and virtual categories. Corporate group packages are also available for employer-sponsored attendees.
Is GHC 2026 available virtually?
Yes. GHC 2026 offers a hybrid format. Virtual attendees can access livestreamed keynotes, selected sessions, a virtual Career Expo, and online networking features at a lower registration cost than in-person tickets.
What is the Hopper Grant?
The Hopper Grant is a scholarship program offered by AnitaB.org. It provides financial assistance to students and early-career professionals from underrepresented groups who wish to attend GHC. Recipients may receive complimentary registration and, in some cases, travel and accommodation support.
What should I bring to the GHC Career Expo?
Bring several printed copies of your resume, a notepad or device for taking notes, and a professional but comfortable outfit. Research participating companies in advance and prepare a brief introduction about your background and career interests.
