I’ve written before about FinCon, aka the Financial Blogger Conference, which I’ve been attending – and speaking at – since 2011. It’s full of programs that can help personal finance writers get better at what they do, and take their websites (and their earnings) to the next level.

However, the conference isn’t strictly limited to PF writers. Scribblers from other genres can also learn from programs that tackle topics such as writing in general, blogging, podcasting, smart use of social media, YouTube channels and affiliate marketing. The networking is huge, as is the opportunity to meet companies looking for freelance writers.

(Not sure you can write PF topics? If you’re a good researcher, you can. Personally, I fell into this kind of writing after 18 years in newspaper journalism – without any particular emphasis on money.)

FinCon 19 takes place from Sept. 4-7 in Washington, D.C. – and there are two opportunities to attend for free or on the cheap. Here’s how.

 

First up is the FinCon19 scholarship. Anyone who’s new to PF blogging, podcasting or vlogging is eligible, provided that s/he hasn’t already registered to attend the conference.

“New” means you started your blog/podcast/website/YouTube channel since January 2018. You’ll be asked just a few questions and given up to 300 words to explain why you should get the scholarship.

Don’t delay! The deadline to submit your application is midnight Central Time Friday, June 17. The winners will be announced the week of June 18. Good luck!

 

The “strictly a money nerd” option

 

Suppose you’re not interested in PF blogging, but you are interested in personal finance. There’s another option: the Community Pass.

The idea is to bring in members of the general public who want to learn about money and how they can make it work for them. The full-access Community Pass means you can attend every day and take any class you want, and also hear speakers like:

• Ramit Sethi (“I Will Teach You To Be Rich”)
• Sharon Epperson (senior personal finance correspondent for CNBC)
• Emma Johnson (“The Kickass Single Mom”)
• Jason Vitug (“You Only Live Once: The Roadmap to Financial Wellness and a Purposeful Life”).

And, ahem, me: I’ll be moderating a panel whose topic should intrigue word newbies and veterans alike: “Freelancers: Quit Giving It Away! Actionable Tips to Get Yourself From Guest Posts to Six-Figures.”

I’ll be among the 200+ speakers who can talk about everything from side hustles to early retirement. A complete list of speakers and topics can be found here.

For $149, you get access to the entire conference – unless, that is, you’re already a PF blogger or working for a company that markets to that group.

I hope to see you there. If you win a scholarship, or sign up for the Community Pass (or even for the entire conference), feel free e-mail me at SurvivingAndThriving (at) live (dot) com and let me know you’ll be attending. It would be great fun to say hello in person.