Girl Develop It

Mission:
Girl Develop It (GDI) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating welcoming, supportive opportunities for women and non-binary adults to learn software development skills. The organization envisions a world where all people are included and empowered in developing the future of technology.

Core Values and Approach

• GDI rejects stereotypes, removes barriers to entry, and cultivates an inclusive environment.
• The organization is committed to diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging, ensuring people of all races, education levels, income, and upbringing can build confidence in their technical skills.

Who They Serve

• GDI serves women and non-binary adults interested in learning web and mobile application development.
• All programs are open to anyone willing to abide by the organization's code of conduct, regardless of prior experience.
• Since 2020, all offerings are virtual, making them accessible to residents of Louisa County, VA, and beyond.

Programs and Services

• Live Workshops: Instructor-led courses covering technical and career topics, ranging from short (2-hour) to in-depth (12-hour) sessions. All classes are hands-on and interactive.
• Hybrid Workshops: Flexible, self-paced courses combining pre-recorded content with live labs and office hours, providing both independence and instructor support.
• Independent Study: One-on-one mentorship with an instructor to work on portfolio projects or challenging technical skills.
• Events: Includes hackathons, networking events, career fairs, and other unique programming designed to foster learning and professional growth.
• Annual Virtual Hackathon: A multi-day event where beginners and experienced tech enthusiasts collaborate to build innovative solutions to real-world problems, with a focus on empowering BIPOC women and non-binary individuals.

Accessibility and Membership

• All programs are offered virtually, allowing participation from anywhere.
• Free events are open to all, and classes are available on a pay-as-you-go basis.
• Paid membership plans are available for those interested in taking multiple classes and engaging more deeply with the community.

Impact

• Since its founding in 2010, GDI has served over 100,000 women and non-binary adults across the United States.
• The organization has hosted over 150 virtual classes and events since 2020, supporting both new learners and seasoned technologists.

Eligibility

• Open to all adults, especially women and non-binary individuals, interested in learning software development skills.
• No prior experience required; programs are designed for both beginners and those seeking to advance or refresh their skills.

Service Area

• All programs are virtual and accessible to residents of Louisa County, VA, and surrounding regions.