The Grace Hopper Celebration is one of the most anticipated events in the technology world. Every year, thousands of women and non-binary technologists gather to learn, grow, and connect. GHC 2026 promises to be bigger and more inspiring than ever. Therefore, whether you are a student, a seasoned professional, or somewhere in between, this guide has everything you need to plan your experience.
What Is the Grace Hopper Celebration?
The Grace Hopper Celebration is the world’s largest gathering of women and non-binary technologists. It is organized by AnitaB.org, a global nonprofit dedicated to empowering women in computing. The event was founded in 1994 by Anita Borg and Telle Whitney to honor the legacy of computing pioneer Grace Hopper.
Over the decades, it has grown from a small symposium into a massive, multi-day conference that draws more than 25,000 attendees from around the world. However, it is much more than just a conference. It is a career catalyst, a community hub, and a space where real change in technology begins.
GHC 2026 Dates and Location
Mark your calendar. GHC 2026 will take place from October 27 to 30, 2026, in Anaheim, California. The Anaheim Convention Center will host the event, placing it in the heart of Southern California. The city is well connected by air and public transit, making travel convenient for attendees coming from across the country and around the globe.
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | Grace Hopper Celebration 2026 |
| Dates | October 27–30, 2026 |
| Location | Anaheim, California |
| Venue | Anaheim Convention Center |
| Organizer | AnitaB.org |
| Expected Attendance | 25,000+ |
Plan your travel early. Hotels near the venue fill up quickly once registration opens, so booking accommodation in advance is strongly recommended.
Registration: How to Sign Up for GHC 2026
Registration is the first step toward joining GHC 2026. AnitaB.org offers several ticket types to accommodate different attendees. Each option is designed to make the event as accessible as possible. Additionally, student scholarships and discounted registration options are typically available for those who qualify.
Ticket Types
- Academic tickets are designed for students and university faculty. They offer a lower price point and include access to sessions, workshops, and the career fair.
- General tickets are for working professionals and industry members. They provide full access to all conference programming.
- Limitless VIP experience tickets offer premium access, including exclusive events and additional networking opportunities.
Key Registration Dates
| Milestone | Timeline |
| Early Bird Registration Opens | Spring 2026 |
| Early Bird Registration Closes | April 30, 2026 |
| General Registration | Spring–Summer 2026 |
| Travel Grant Application Deadline | September 25, 2026 |
| Travel Grant Notifications | October 5, 2026 |
| Conference Begins | October 27, 2026 |
Early bird registration offers the lowest pricing available. Therefore, signing up as soon as registration opens is the smartest move for budget-conscious attendees.
Schedule Overview: What to Expect Each Day
GHC 2026 spans four full days of programming. Each day is packed with a mix of keynotes, technical sessions, workshops, and social events. While the full schedule will be released closer to the event, here is a general overview of what attendees can expect based on past years.
Day One — October 27: Opening and Keynotes
The opening day typically sets the tone for the entire event. Expect a powerful welcome keynote from AnitaB.org leadership and featured speakers who represent the best of the tech world. Additionally, opening day workshops and orientation sessions help first-time attendees get their bearings.
Day Two — October 28: Deep Dives and Technical Sessions
The second day usually features the heaviest concentration of technical content. Sessions span topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing, and inclusive technology design. Attendees can choose from dozens of concurrent tracks based on their interests and career goals.
Day Three — October 29: Career Fair and Networking
Day three is when the massive career fair opens its doors. Hundreds of companies, often exceeding 400 organizations, set up booths to recruit talented professionals. Major names such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Apple, and Adobe regularly participate. However, smaller startups and nonprofit organizations also attend, offering a wide range of opportunities.
Day Four — October 30: Closing and Celebration
The final day wraps up the event with closing keynotes, award ceremonies, and community celebrations. It is a time to reflect on the experience, exchange contact information, and celebrate the connections made throughout the week.
Speakers at GHC 2026
The speaker lineup is one of the most exciting parts of any Grace Hopper Celebration. GHC 2026 will bring together visionary leaders, technologists, and changemakers from across industries worldwide.
Speaker announcements for GHC 2026 began in March 2026, with additional speakers revealed throughout the spring and summer leading up to the conference. Speakers represent a wide range of backgrounds and expertise, covering technology, leadership, innovation, and social impact.
Sessions are typically organized into the following tracks:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Cybersecurity and Privacy
- Data Science and Analytics
- Systems and Software Engineering
- Leadership and Career Development
- Social Impact and Inclusive Technology
Checking the official GHC website regularly is the best way to stay updated on new speaker announcements as they are released throughout the year.
Networking Opportunities at GHC 2026
Networking is one of the top reasons people attend GHC year after year. The event creates a unique environment where meaningful connections happen naturally. You will find yourself surrounded by thousands of professionals who share similar goals and challenges. This makes it easier to start conversations and build lasting relationships.
Ways to Network at GHC
There are many ways to connect with others throughout the event. First, attending keynotes and sessions puts you in the same room as hundreds of like-minded professionals. Second, the career fair offers direct face time with company representatives. Third, AnitaB.org membership provides access to community groups and online forums that stay active long after the conference ends.
Additionally, many companies host private networking events and receptions during the conference days. These smaller gatherings are excellent opportunities to have deeper conversations with industry leaders and recruiters.
Tips for Effective Networking
- Update your resume and LinkedIn profile before you arrive.
- Bring plenty of business cards or a digital contact-sharing method.
- Set goals for the number of people you want to meet each day.
- Follow up with new connections within 48 hours of meeting them.
- Join the AnitaB.org online community to continue conversations after the event.
Career Opportunities at GHC 2026
For many attendees, GHC is where careers change direction. The career fair alone draws hundreds of top employers looking to hire talented professionals. However, the opportunities extend well beyond the job fair floor.
The GHC Career Fair
The career fair at GHC 2026 is expected to feature more than 400 organizations. These range from global tech giants to government agencies and academic institutions. Companies come prepared to interview on the spot in many cases, so arriving with copies of your resume is essential.
| Career Fair Highlights | Details |
| Number of Organizations | 400+ expected |
| Types of Roles | Internships, full-time, leadership |
| Industries Represented | Tech, finance, government, academia |
| Who Attends | Students, early career, experienced professionals |
Beyond the Career Fair
Workshops focused on resume writing, salary negotiation, and interview preparation run throughout the conference. Additionally, mentorship sessions connect junior attendees with senior professionals who can offer guidance and advice. These programs make GHC especially valuable for students and recent graduates entering the workforce.
Scholarships and Travel Grants
Cost should not be a barrier to attending GHC 2026. AnitaB.org and many partner companies offer scholarships and travel grants to help students and early-career professionals attend. For example, Citadel Securities offers a travel grant program with an application deadline of September 25, 2026, and notifications sent by October 5, 2026.
To improve your chances of receiving a grant, apply early, write a compelling personal statement, and make sure your resume is polished. Many grants are competitive, so a strong application makes a real difference.
How to Prepare for GHC 2026
Preparation is everything at a conference this large. With so much happening across four days, having a plan helps you get the most out of the experience.
- Review the schedule as soon as it is published and highlight your must-attend sessions.
- Register for workshops early, as popular ones fill up fast.
- Research the companies attending the career fair and prioritize the ones that match your goals.
- Download the official GHC app when it becomes available for real-time updates and session reminders.
- Pack comfortable shoes, a portable charger, and a reusable water bottle.
- Book your hotel as soon as registration opens to secure the best rates.
Conclusion
GHC 2026 is set to be a landmark event for women and non-binary technologists around the world. Taking place from October 27 to 30, 2026, in Anaheim, California, the conference offers an unmatched combination of inspiring speakers, technical learning, career opportunities, and meaningful networking. Whether you are attending for the first time or returning for another year, the experience has the power to shape your career in lasting ways. Register early, plan ahead, and arrive ready to make the most of every moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is GHC 2026?
GHC 2026 takes place from October 27 to 30, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.
Who can attend Grace Hopper Celebration 2026?
The event is open to women, non-binary technologists, students, researchers, and industry professionals. Allies and supporters are also welcome to attend and participate.
How much does registration cost for GHC 2026?
Registration costs vary depending on ticket type. Academic tickets are priced lower than general admission tickets. Early bird registration offers the best rates. Checking the official AnitaB.org website for the most current pricing is recommended.
Are there scholarships available for GHC 2026?
Yes. AnitaB.org and several partner organizations offer scholarships and travel grants. Application deadlines vary by program, so checking early and applying as soon as applications open is advised.
What should I bring to the GHC 2026 career fair?
Bring multiple copies of your resume, a list of target companies, and any questions you want to ask recruiters. Updating your LinkedIn profile before the event is also a smart move. Some companies conduct on-site interviews, so being prepared to speak about your experience is important.
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