Looking to attend the 2026 Austin SCBWI Writers & Illustrators Conference? You're in the right place!
If you're ready, REGISTER HERE starting June 14th, 9am CT. Before June 14th, you can sign up for reminders.
Why should I attend? If you are a writer, author, illustrator, or translator, this conference is where you want to be. SCBWI Austin brings in top local talent and industry pros from all over the country. This conference is for pre-published or currently-published professionals looking to further their career.
What is the Austin conference like? The Austin conference is a jam-packed 1-day conference with a mix of class, socials, panels, and awards, see: SCHEDULE. Our conference is educational in nature. We have opportunities to connect with faculty through FIRST-LOOK sessions or our virtual critique and pitch options, see: FEEDBACK. There is a PORTFOLIO SHOWCASE along with both illustrator and writer MENTORSHIPS.
What are the details? The conference takes place Friday night, Sept 25th, for the industry mixer -- a place for attendees, published authors, and industry professionals to mingle. Then we gather early Saturday morning near UT at the Thompson Conference Center for a full day of learning, networking, and connecting. We provide lunch, snacks, & parking!
Getting excited? Us too! Now we'll walk you through how to register:
Step 1: Register for breakout 1 [REQUIRED]
This is a 45min educational session. You may choose to switch day-of, but registering now helps us plan for the room size. No additional cost for this step.
View the SCHEDULE to see breakout options.
Step 2: Register for breakout 2 [REQUIRED]
This is a 45min educational session. You may choose to switch day-of, but registering now helps us plan for the room size. No additional cost for this step.
View the SCHEDULE to see breakout options.
Step 3: Register for a workshop [REQUIRED]
This is a 2hour workshop session. You may choose to switch day-of, but registering now helps us plan for the room size. No additional cost for this step.
View the SCHEDULE to see workshop options.
Step 4: Register for the Industry Mixer [OPTIONAL]
Everyone's favorite event is back, Friday Sept 25th. Join us for drinks, food, and mingling before the conference day. This event is optional and has a small fee. This is the best way to make a new friend, mingle with faculty, meet other noteworthy professionals.
For published authors and illustrators, your ticket is free -> email [email protected] for a special coupon code.
See details: FRIDAY MIXER
Step 5: Register for First Looks [OPTIONAL]
This is NEW to 2026. This year we are holding 8 FIRST LOOK sessions. These are small, private group sessions with 1 faculty. This is the perfect chance to interact closer with faculty and learn directly from them on the topic of the first look. Make sure to choose the first look that fits best for you! Must be registered to attend, there is no public viewing or recording. No additional cost for this step. First come, first serve. You will have the opportunity to submit items for the session, but there is no guarantee yours will be chosen. If you want dedicated, thorough feedback, sign up for a critique session as well. These sessions overlap with the breakouts and workshops, so make sure to add-on the recordings if you want to watch the replay of the session you'll miss.
Step 6: Register to join the Portfolio Showcase [OPTIONAL]
Your portfolio will be showcased in the lobby for all to view. Faculty will also review them and vote for the awards. Additionally, participating in the portfolio showcase enters you into a chance to win the illustrator mentorship.
This has a small fee.
See details: PORTFOLIO SHOWCASE
Step 7: Register for the pre-conference Pitch Webinar with agent Jackie Kruzie [OPTIONAL]
For those verbal pitching, learn the best tips and tricks from agent Jackie Kruzie. Go into your verbal pitch sessions with confidence and clarity. One of the most-liked events last year!
Small additional cost for this add-on.
See details: CONFERENCE PREP WEBINARS
Step 8: Register for the pre-conference Portfolio Mastery session with Anoosha Syed [OPTIONAL]
Are you participating in the portfolio showcase? Want to understand what goes into a good portfolio? Spend an evening with the talented illustrator, Anoosha Syed, as she walks you through a perfect portfolio.
Small additional cost for this add-on.
See details: CONFERENCE PREP WEBINARS
Final Step! Policy agreement [REQUIRED]
You must be at least 18yo and agree to SCBWI's policies.
Next, feedback sessions!
These are all optional. If you are not interested in pitching, getting critiques or portfolio reviews, then you can skip to the end and submit your registration! More about FEEDBACK SESSIONS.
View the full faculty list here: VIEW FACULTY MSWL Please review each faculty's manuscript wishlists closely!
Steps ##tbd: Feedback from AGENTS
These are feedback sessions from agents. If you are not interested in agent feedback, skip to the editor feedback.
Steps ##tbd: Feedback from EDITORS
These are feedback sessions from editors. If you are not interested in editor feedback, skip to the art director feedback.
Steps ##tbd: Feedback from ART DIRECTORS
These are feedback sessions from ADs. If you are not interested in AD feedback, finish your registration at the bottom!
That's it! You're ready for September!
Quick links:
Questions? Email [email protected]