IncludAI - The Neurodiversity Hackathon, in Partnership with Stanford NNEA

Overview

IncludAI is a remote, week-long hackathon focused on building AI tools that are truly usable by neurodivergent learners. Hosted in partnership with Stanford NNEA and organized by IncludEDU, this event emphasizes inclusion, accessibility, and user-centered design. Teams of 1 to 5 participants will work to create AI-powered solutions designed with real neurodivergent users and tested in collaboration with the community. The best projects may be showcased at the Stanford Neurodiversity Summit in September 2026. The challenge welcomes beginners and experienced builders alike, with a beginner-friendly track and structured support throughout the week.

Tracks

Participants may choose from three tracks:

• Track 1 – AI for Learners Who Think Differently: AI tools for neurodivergent K–12 students, adapted to meet individual needs rather than forcing the student to adapt to the tool.
• Track 2 – AI for Connection & Wellbeing: Tools that support social skills and mental health in a safe, inclusive environment.
• Track 3 – AI Creative Amplifier: Tools that unlock creative expression through gesture, voice, or drawing inputs.

Get Started

The program provides a clear path from idea to submission. Steps include registering on Devpost, joining the community Discord, selecting a track, attending an August 1 kickoff for three beginner workshops, and finding a neurodivergent user early as a required part of the design process. Teams must build a prototype and prepare a 3-minute demo video for submission by August 8, 2026 at 11:59 PM PT. Mentorship is available, and teams of all sizes are welcome.

What to Build

Projects can be web apps, mobile apps, chatbots, browser extensions, APIs, or other formats. Two universal requirements apply to every submission:

• AI must be meaningfully integrated
• Real neurodivergent users must be involved in design or testing, with documentation of their engagement

Submission Details

All deliverables should be posted on the Devpost project page by the deadline. Required items include a 3-minute demo video, a project description detailing the problem, target users, AI usage, and user involvement, and a public source code link. The prize pool includes multiple cash awards, with a Grand Prize and track-based recognitions.

Eligibility & Community

IncludEDU invites participants from diverse backgrounds and emphasizes accessibility-first design. The event is online, with multiple opportunities to engage asynchronously or synchronously. Prizes total at least $3,000, with individual track prizes and a special Neurodivergent Innovator Award. The program also highlights community guidance, forums, and opportunities to join an IncludEDU chapter or contribute to the Stanford NNEA initiative.

FAQ

If you are new to hackathons or AI development, there is a guided path from registration to submission, mentorship, and beginner workshops. Expect to work with at least one neurodivergent user, test early, and document impact clearly in your submission.

Who should attend

Students, educators, and allies interested in inclusive education and neurodiversity advocacy are encouraged to participate. This is a community-driven event designed for learning, collaboration, and real-world impact.