EARLY BIRD DETAILS

Why You Should Register Early

EARLY BIRD OPENS JUNE 15TH

Save money. Get first pick. Unlock exclusive perks.

1 – Save 20% on Conference Registration

Early birds get the best deal—plain and simple. Lock in your spot and enjoy all the same great programming at a lower cost.

2 – First Access to Limited Opportunities

Many of our premium experiences fill up fast, but early birds get first choices on:

  • Pitch sessions with agents and editors
  • Written critiques from faculty
  • Portfolio showcase slots
  • One-on-one portfolio reviews

If you want to maximize your face time with publishing professionals, registering early is your best shot.

3 – Discounted Admission to Industry Mixer + Pitch Practice

Get a jump-start on networking and pitch preparation at our Friday night Industry Mixer and the optional Pitch Practice event. These are powerful, small-group settings where you’ll connect with faculty and sharpen your skills—and early birds get in at a reduced price.

4 – 50% Off Our Publishing Bootcamp in November

SCBWI Virtual Event | November 9, 2025

While our main conference is all about the craft of writing and illustrating, we know many creators are also focused on getting published. That’s why early bird registrants unlock a 50% discount for:

From Draft to Deal: Your Publishing Bootcamp - FIVE HOURS of LIVE video classes!

If you've ever asked:

  • How do I turn this manuscript into a real book?
  • What exactly do agents and editors want?
  • What happens after someone says yes?

This full-day, virtual bootcamp is for you. With faculty from across the industry—including agents, editors, and published creators—From Draft to Deal walks you through every step of the traditional publishing process. You’ll get honest advice, practical tips, and insider knowledge that will demystify what it takes to go from idea to contract. Best of all? Early Bird conference attendees get this publishing-focused workshop for half the price.

Session #1 - Indie v. Legacy (Traditional) Publishing: A Book-by-Book Choice with Darcy Pattison (Self Pub Author, SCBWI Keynote Speaker)

Session #2 - How to Self-publish a Children’s Book: Key Options and Practical Tips with Karen Inglis (Self-Pub Author)

Session #3 - Navigating Submission to Aquisition to Publication: Succeeding with your publishing team with Jennifer March Soloway (Agent)

Session #4 - Pitching with Purpose: Crafting a Compelling Story That Sells Your Book with Linda Predovsky (Book Coach)

Session #5 - Query Letters That Get Noticed: Writing standout queries to agents and publishers with Michaela (Mike) Whatnall (Agent)