2026 Austin's Annual Children's Book Conference for Writers & Illustrators

Looking to attend the 2026 Austin SCBWI Writers & Illustrators Conference? You're in the right place! Visit here for all the details and registration: [https://www.scbwi.org/events/2026-austin-scbwi-conference](https://www.scbwi.org/events/2026-austin-scbwi-conference) (You must register on the website to recieve admission.) 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. • 🎤 21 sessions: keynotes, breakouts, workshops, & first looks • 💡 Agent panel & editor panel • 📝 Over 300 spots for critiques, pitches, portfolio reviews, AMAs • ✏️ Portfolio showcase, illustrator awards, and mentorship • 🏅 PB, Middle Grade, & YA year-long writing mentorships • 🌮 Parking & food included (lunch, desserts, coffee, tea & more) • 🍹 Guest-List only Friday Industry Mixer (FREE for PALs) • 🎥 Opportunity to purchase recordings to ALL sessions! • 💼 Free pre-conference preparation workshops 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. Our conference is educational in nature. We have opportunities to connect with faculty through FIRST-LOOK sessions or our virtual critique and pitch options. 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, Sept 26th, morning near UT at the Thompson Conference Center for a full day of learning, networking, and connecting. We provide lunch, snacks, & parking! Early Bird "EB" Tuition (June 14th - July 15th, 2026) EB Premium Member, full conference: $239 EB Preview User (non-member), full conference: $279 Regular Tuition (July 15th - Sept 15th, 2026) SCBWI Premium Member, full conference: $289 Preview User (non-member), full conference: $309 EXTRAS, FEES, ADD-ONS EARLY BIRD PRICING:* Full Replay Pass of All Recordings: $10 Pre Conference Webinars (2): FREE for EB First Look Sessions: FREE for EB Writing Mentorship Application: FREE for EB Written Manuscript Critiques: $62 (virtual) Zoom Manuscript Critiques: $82 (virtual) Portfolio Review: $82 (virtual) Pitch/AMA: $42 for all (virtual) Portfolio Showcase $10 for members, $30 for non-members Friday Industry Mixer: $15 for members, $30 for non-members (free for PAL during early bird email austin@scbwi.org for PAL code) More details on the website: Please see: [https://www.scbwi.org/events/2026-austin-scbwi-conference](https://www.scbwi.org/events/2026-austin-scbwi-conference)