Prep for the 2026 Summer Conference

It's here! The SCBWI Summer Virtual Conference 2026!

As we gear up for the fantastic weekend, let's have a rundown on how to prepare!

This year the conference will be hosted by Airmeet, so keep a lookout in your inboxes for your "Access Event" link, that activates TODAY, July 30th. 

To kick off this year's 2026 Virtual Summer Conference, there will be a panel discussion on the current state of book bans with Phil Bildner, Cheryl L. Davis, George M. Johnson and Namrata Tripathi. Moderated by Alvina Ling. This panel, sponsored by the Authors Coalition of America, is FREE and open to the public.

Online on July 30th from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (PDT) / 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM (EST)

Before the big day begins tomorrow, make sure that you have updated your Profile and Portfolio Gallery. Go to MEMBER HOME, click MY PROFILE and then on EDIT MY PROFILE.

To update your portfolio, click SHARE YOUR WORK, where you can ADD ILLUSTRATION or ADD A
BOOK. Don't be shy! Show us your work! Get feedback, connect and check out what others are creating!

 

ON MY TO-DO LIST

1. Snacks! - The conference is jam-packed with so many wonderful offerings, workshops, panels, etc and I always have my snacks at the ready as I'm taking it all in! On the list are Twizzlers, Sour Patch Watermelons, Popcorn and maybe, some cookies this time around. 
2. Notebook at the Ready! - Make sure you have a notebook or something to write on at the ready. There will be gems falling from the sky this weekend, and you never know what piece of advice or insight might spark your creativity.
3. Art Supplies (if it applies to you) - If you are an illustrator, bring your sketchbook. I love see the illustrated notes that people create and it inspires me to try it myself. Don't forget to tag us so we can share! IG, Threads, FB, tag us @scbwi and on Bluesky, @scbwi.bsky.social. Use hashtag #scbwiSummer26
4. Water/ Favorite Beverage - I have my water, my juice, my coffee and my electrolytes! Stay hydrated to stay motivated! 

Also, if you are looking for some light reading, check out free webinars, editor interviews, conference scholarship and more in your July INSIGHT!