Maker City Summit 2026
January 30 – February 1 • Knoxville, TN
The Maker City Summit 2026 is a full weekend designed for makers, artists, creative entrepreneurs, and independent brands. This three-day experience brings together workshops, powerful presentations, and meaningful networking opportunities that energize, educate, and inspire.
The weekend opens with a Friday evening social event on January 30th at Able Trade, followed by the main programming on Saturday, January 31st and Sunday, February 1st at the Maker Exchange in Downtown Knoxville, TN. Led by innovators and community leaders, this summit sparks conversation around creativity, commerce, and the future of the maker economy.
Sarah Sewell at Maker City Summit
Sarah Sewell will be a keynote speaker and workshop instructor throughout the weekend.
SATURDAY, 11:00 AM: BREAKOUT SESSION
eComm: How to Build an Artisan Brand Online
Ready to turn your handmade products into a professional, profitable brand? In this beginner-friendly workshop, small business strategist Sarah Sewell walks participants through her signature Define, Design, Deliver framework for building a successful artisan brand online.
Whether you’re launching your first shop or leveling up an existing one, you’ll learn how to:
Define your niche and identify your ideal customer
Design a strong brand presence with compelling photography and high-converting listings
Deliver a customer experience that builds loyalty and repeat sales
Participants will leave with actionable steps, fresh inspiration, and the confidence to show up like the business owners they truly are.
SUNDAY, 9:00 AM: KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
Maker to Merchant: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything
Do you see yourself as a hobbyist… or an entrepreneur? In this mindset-focused keynote, Sarah Sewell challenges makers to step confidently into the role of business owner. If you’ve ever downplayed your skills, underpriced your work, or struggled to take your shop seriously, this session will show how your thoughts, words, and beliefs directly impact your business and how shifting them can transform your growth starting today.