+ What kind of exhibits and projects is SWMF looking for?

Primarily, we're looking for exhibits and projects that are interactive and engage visitors. Here are a some of the projects that would be ideal for Southwest Maker Fest:

• Coding Workshops
• Hacking projects & Workshops
• Community Collaborative Art Projects
• Computer Aided Design & 3D Printing Workshops & Demos
• DIY Rockets and Radio Controlled Toys in Action
• Unique make and take art projects
• Extraordinary Innovations, Machines and Tools
• Hacked Radios, Computers and Game Systems
• Homegrown Robots and Flying Drones
• Large Scale Sculpture and Art
• Interactive Electronics, LED lights, Arduino and Raspberry Pi projects
• Interactive Textile Arts
• Projects with emphasis on Sustainability & Green Technologies
• Kits, Puppets and Other Imaginative Brainchildren
• Repurposed Bicycles and Other forms of Low-Impact Transportation
• Science, Biotech and Chemistry projects
• STEAM Kit Makers
• STEAM Student Projects
• Traditional Arts
• Arts with a new twist
• Anachronistic Arts

+ When and where will Southwest Maker Fest take place?

Southwest Maker Fest 2024 will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024 on Macdonald Street just north of Main Street in downtown Mesa. All exhibits will be outside, rain or shine.

+ I would like to give a presentation or a workshop but do not plan to have my own exhibit. Can you provide a space for me?

We have very limited spaces for workshops and presentations. Please let us know how long your workshop or presentation lasts (typically 30-60 minutes), allowing time for Q&A, and any special setup requirements in the Special Setup field in the application form.

+ Is there a cost to exhibit?

There is an expectation that all exhibits at Southwest Maker Fest are interactive, and there is no cost to exhibit. Interactive exhibits include one or more of the following:

• Make & Take activity
• Hands on activity
• Workshop
• Classes
• Demonstrations
• Presentations
• Q&A

You may sell items you made, but the primary purpose of your exhibit should be interaction, not selling. If you do plan to sell, you must send us your Arizona and Mesa TPT license information 3 weeks prior to the fest. Send info to swmakerfest@gmail.com.

+ Can I sell my work at SWMF?

Yes if you have an interactive exhibit you can also sell things.

+ How big is an exhibit space?

The regular exhibit space is 10x10’, outdoors. You may also request a double (10'x20') space. If you have other special space requirements for your exhibit space, please explain in the "Special Setup" field near the end of the form.

+ What is provided at the exhibit space?

Basically, the space. All spaces are outdoors and uncovered. You should supply your own canopy, tables, chairs, and display items. If you have requirements for power, you may indicate on the application. We will do what we can to accommodate these requests.

+ When are applications due?

Applications will be accepted through Wednesday February 10.

+ When will I hear back after submitting my application?

Give our volunteers a couple days to let you know your application was received. If you don't hear back please contact us at swmakerfest@gmail.com.

+ Are late applications accepted?

Applications will be reviewed through February 10.