As an author, attending a writing conference can be a valuable investment in your career. From networking opportunities to educational workshops and panel discussions, writing conferences offer a range of benefits that can help you grow as a writer and navigate the publishing industry.

This year, our Idaho Writers Conference is better than ever. We have an advanced fiction workshop by Robert Dugoni, Craig Johnson as our keynote speaker, and dozens of amazing industry professionals for you to learn both the craft and the business of writing from.

Here are just a few reasons why you should consider attending this year’s conference:

Networking Opportunities

Writing conferences provide a great opportunity to connect with other writers, editors, agents, and publishing industry professionals. You’ll have the chance to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build relationships that could be the ones that improve your life regardless of your path to publication.

These connections can be especially useful if you’re just starting out as a writer, as they can provide valuable insights and advice you might not get anywhere else. check out the coffee talks and “barcon”, the unofficial networking events that happen in the evening after the conference.

Educational Workshops and Panel Discussions

Like many writing conferences, we offer workshops and panel discussions led by experienced writers and industry professionals. These sessions can provide valuable insights into the craft of writing, as well as the business of publishing.

We’ll start with a one-day workshop with Rober Dugoni, where he will share his nationally acclaimed fiction techniques for authors. He shares insights about every aspect of writing life.

Then we’ll hear from authors like Carissa Andrews of Author Revolution, Claire Taylor the author of Reclaim Your Author Career and Enneagram expert, Becca Symes, Kristen Lamb, Rachel van Dyken, Colleen Story of Writer Wellness and author of Writer Get Noticed, and other experts, agents, and editors.

We have panels including agents, editors, and authors who collaborate. You’ll learn some amazing things or even just get a refresher on things you might know, but haven’t applied as well as you should.

From learning about the latest writing techniques and trends to getting advice on how to market your work, these sessions can be a great way to improve your writing skills and build your knowledge of the industry.

Access to Agents and Editors

The Idaho Writers Guild brings in editors and agents who host pitch sessions and one-on-one manuscript evaluations, which can be a great opportunity for authors to get their work in front of decision-makers and professionals.

Even if you’re not ready to pitch your work, the panels we have can be a great way to learn about the publishing industry and what agents and editors are looking for.

For individual sessions, you will need to sign up using the button below. The cost is separate from your conference admission, but you must be registred for the conference to sign up.

We can’t wait to see what you bring, and how you take advantage of this rare opportunity.

Get Inspired and Motivated

Attending a writing conference can be a great way to reignite your passion for writing and find new inspiration for your work. You’ll have the opportunity to listen to other writers share their experiences and insights, which can help spark new ideas for your own writing.

Additionally, being surrounded by other writers can be incredibly motivating, as you’ll be able to draw on their energy and enthusiasm for the craft. If you join the sessions and participate in networking opportunities, you’ll be sure to get the most out of the conference.