Indie Author Summit 2026: Connect with Indie Publishers & Indie Authors
About this Event
Your Story Matters. Let's Help It Reach the World.
You have an idea, a manuscript, a book in progress—or perhaps a published work that deserves a wider audience.
What you need now isn't another online course or generic writing advice.
You need connections.
You need clarity.
You need a room full of people who understand the journey.
That's exactly why we created the Indie Author Summit.
Join fellow writers and publishing professionals for a one-day immersive experience designed to help independent authors navigate the ever-changing publishing landscape, build meaningful industry relationships, and gain practical insights that can move their writing careers forward.
Whether you're writing your first book, exploring self-publishing, pursuing traditional publishing opportunities, or growing your author platform, you'll leave with actionable knowledge, valuable connections, and renewed confidence.
Meet Publishing Professionals Looking for New Voices
Throughout the day, you'll hear directly from representatives from:
- Culicidae Press
- Ballast Books
- Blue Balloon Books
- Dream To Author
- Midwestern Books
Learn:
✓ What publishers are looking for today
✓ Common mistakes authors make when submitting work
✓ How to position your book for success
✓ The realities of traditional, hybrid, and independent publishing
✓ Ways to build an audience before and after publication
✓ How to create meaningful relationships within the writing community
You'll have opportunities to ask questions, engage in discussion, and connect directly with professionals who understand the publishing process.
More Than a Conference
The Indie Author Summit is intentionally limited to just 40 participants.
Why?
Because meaningful conversations happen in smaller rooms.
This isn't a convention where you'll disappear into a crowd of hundreds.
It's an intimate gathering where authors can build authentic relationships, receive thoughtful feedback, and leave feeling connected to a supportive community of fellow storytellers.
What's Included
Your registration includes:
☕ Coffee, tea, and juice
🥐 Morning baked treats
🥙 Mediterranean lunch featuring wraps with hummus, quinoa tabouli, and vegan or chicken options
🍰 Dessert
🌱 Gluten-free and dairy-free options available
❤️ Accommodations for additional dietary needs with advance notice
Our meals are prepared by Melissa Whaley and Sam Chamberlain of Troll Mountain, who believe food is one of the most powerful ways to build community and connection.
Who Should Attend?
This event is perfect for:
- Aspiring authors
- First-time writers
- Self-published authors
- Traditionally published authors
- Memoirists
- Novelists
- Nonfiction writers
- Poets
- Creatives considering writing a book
- Anyone with a story they feel called to share
Accessibility & Community Commitment
We believe that great stories should not remain untold because of financial barriers.
The ticket price listed reflects the value of the experience and helps cover event expenses. However, if cost is preventing you from attending, please reach out directly.
We're happy to discuss options because we want passionate writers in the room.
Event Details
📅 Saturday, July 25, 2026
🕘 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens
Athens, Ohio
🎟 Limited to 40 attendees
Reserve Your Seat
The publishing world doesn't need more books.
It needs more authentic voices.
If you have a story that matters, this summit was created for you.
Join us for a day of learning, connection, inspiration, and possibility.
Reserve your seat today before all 40 spots are filled.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 25.00 to USD 125.00
