2025 Austin SCBWI Mini MFA Conference
Sep 27, 2025
Joe C Thompson Conference Center, 2405 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
Calling Texas & beyond writers and illustrators! The Austin chapter is offering a focused, craft-driven experience designed to help writers and illustrators polish their skills. Think of it as a "Mini MFA" degree to help jump-start your journey into the world of children's book writing and illustration. This year's conference will take place at Joe C Thompson Conference Center, 2405 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712 near the University of Texas in Austin.
Registration is open through Sept 15th!
Trouble with registration? Email [email protected]
Join us September 27th, 2025 in downtown Austin, Texas for the 2025 Austin SCBWI Mini-MFA Fall Conference to learn your craft, get feedback on your work, and meet and make friends with fellow children’s book writers and illustrators.
- 2 fabulous keynotes from an art director and an editor
- 8 breakout sessions on writing, illustrating, and professional development
- 8 workshop/intensives on picture books, novels, and illustration
- Over 250 spots for critiques, pitches, portfolio reviews
- Participate in portfolio showcase
- Enter into mentorship awards & writers contests
- Parking & lunch INCLUDED!!
- Access to Guest-List only Friday night INDUSTRY MIXER
- Lots of SCBWI swag & giveaways!
- Book signing with faculty & creatives
- Exclusive PAL opportunities
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
🍹 Access to Friday's Guest-List Only industry mixer!
🎤 Keynotes, Breakouts, Workshops, and Panels, oh my!
🌮 Yummy lunch! (Dietary friendly) Coffee, Tea, Water all-day!
🚗 Free parking in a private, secure lot! (In Austin? Unheard of!)
🧢 Exclusive SCBWI merch provided with conference pass
🎒 Full Saturday of networking and learning with your besties!
📝 Pitches, critiques, feedback, contests, portfolio reviews!
🎟️ Discounted rate for the November Publishing Bootcamp!
💼 Pre-and Post-Conference Opportunities & Events
MORE INFORMATION:
FOR PALS
Learn about opportunities for PAL (published and listed) members to connect and share your work.
FRIDAY INDUSTRY MIXER
Mingle with local talented creatives on Friday before the conference. Guest-list only.
WHEN
Friday, Sept 26th, 2025 6:30 - 9:30 pm CST (Industry Mixer)
Saturday, Sept 27th, 2025 8:00 am-5:00 pm CST (Conference Day) Available Seats: 150
WHERE
Joe C Thompson Conference Center, 2405 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712 (In-person ONLY)
HOW
Register using the green button above!
You may revisit the conference registration page as often as you like to add more items to your registration as long as spots remain. Please note critiques and pitches tend to sell out quickly, so you run the risk of not securing your spot if you wait too long. Visit the Dates & Deadlines to Remember page for details about when certain items must be secured.
Questions about this event? Contact [email protected]
Conference Illustrations By:
Conference Graphic Design By: