EXTRAS & BONUS EVENTS

Your conference ticket unlocks more than just amazing sessions—it comes with access to bonus events, career-building extras, and exclusive discounts to help you get the most out of your SCBWI experience. Check out everything you’ll get (or can opt into):

1 - Post-Conference Bonus: 50% Off the From Draft to Deal Publishing Bootcamp (with early bird)

SCBWI Virtual Event | November 9, 2025

While the Austin conference focuses on storytelling craft, this virtual bootcamp dives into what comes after: agents, submissions, deals, and everything in between. Learn from top-tier agents, editors, and published creators about how to take your manuscript from polished draft to published book. Early bird conference attendees get this intensive publishing-focused day for half price—an unbeatable deal!

2 - Pre-Conference Pitch Practice Opportunities

Warm up before the big day with two great options to sharpen your pitch and boost your confidence:

• Pitch Practice Webinar ($20–$30): A relaxed, guided workshop to help you craft and polish your pitch.
• Pitch Roundtables: Small group settings where you’ll practice your pitch live and get feedback from experienced moderators.

These early sessions are a perfect way to get comfortable and start networking ahead of time.

3 - Instagram Contest

A fun Instagram contest to help you connect and make memories! This year’s challenge: Snap a pic with a new buddy! Winners receive prizes and are featured on our SCBWI Austin socials. Use #AustinSCBWI in your social media posts to win a bookstore gift certificate!

4 - Illustrator Mentorship & RA Writer Mentorship Opportunities

Whether you’re an illustrator or author, you’ll have a chance to connect with mentors and experienced professionals in the SCBWI community.

• Illustrator Mentorship spots (feedback + career advice from working illustrators)
• RA Mentorship (for writers looking for one-on-one guidance from a regional advisor)

5 - Conference Swag (Just for SCBWI Attendees!)

Get your hands on exclusive SCBWI merch and conference swag, available only to registered attendees. We love to surprise you with useful, creative goodies designed to celebrate your commitment and keep the inspiration going long after the conference ends.

6 - PAL Exclusive-Opportunities

See the special options for PAL attendees!

7 - Friday Industry Mixer

Kick off the weekend with a special evening designed for connection! Our Industry Mixer brings together PAL members, invited publishing guests, conference faculty, and regional SCBWI volunteers for a casual, celebratory networking event. Enjoy light refreshments as you mingle with editors, agents, and fellow creators in a relaxed setting that encourages conversation and community. This guest-list-only event is a chance to build authentic industry relationships, reconnect with peers, and toast your publishing milestones.