About the 2026 NETSCOUT All Girls Hackathon:

Welcome to the 2026 NETSCOUT All Girls Hackathon—a unique, in-person event empowering middle and high school girls to use data science and AI for good! At this hackathon, you won’t be solving a single set problem. Instead, you and your team will identify a social issue that matters to you—at school, at home, online, or in your community—and build an AI-powered solution that can make a real difference.

You’ll participate in expert-led keynote addresses, engage in guided mentorship, and collaborate with peers in an intensive, supportive, and friendly environment. No prior experience is needed; everyone is welcome!

Theme:

Build an AI solution for a social problem of your team's choosing. Example projects from past events include a Fake News Detector, technologies for community connections, mental health support, government transparency, and smart parking solutions.

Why is this hackathon special?:

- Girls-only, beginner-friendly event (middle & high school)

- In-person at NETSCOUT Corporate Office, Westford, MA

- Professional mentors available all day

- Friendly, inclusive atmosphere—no harsh competition or pressure!

- Prizes for top teams and raffle rewards for participation

- Free attendance thanks to generous sponsors

- Meals, snacks, and Wi-Fi provided

• Ideation
  Is the idea clear, useful, and relevant to the theme? Does it solve a real problem?
• Innovation & Functionality
  Is the idea creative and unique? does it work well and make a real impact?
• Presentation & Storytelling
  Did the team explain their idea clearly and confidently? Was it engaging and easy to understand?
• The WOW Factor
  Does the idea stand out? Is it exciting, impressive, and memorable?