Participate
Want to be part of the FAB26 program? Whether you’re excited to share your expertise, lead a session, or collaborate on something new, we invite you to get involved. Scroll down to explore all the ways you can participate.
How it works
- The open call is launched under the theme Reimagining the Future.
- Applications are open from January 15 to April 20, 2026 (except for Research Papers – see below).
- Once the application period closes, submissions will undergo a curation process. Entries will be approved based on submission quality, program fit, the number of applications, and event capacity. We encourage you to submit new activities, workshops, or talks!
- We will contact you about the status of your submission by the end of April - at the latest!
GUIDELINES
1. Read the basic overview of the categories for participation.
- This will help you better understand the scope of each category and decide on the best option for your application.
2. Please read the FAQ for Participation carefully.
- You will find answers to many of the questions you may have before, during, or after submitting your proposal.
- If we have not answered your question in the FAQ, please reach out to fabevents@fabfoundation.org.
3. What makes a good application?
- Plan and outline your content in detail to increase the chances of a successful application. Applications should be well thought-out and prepared.
- Stay aligned with the specifics of each category as described in the application form.
- Submit your application early. This is highly appreciated and helps us process applications more efficiently.
4. Click "Apply Now," fill out the application form, and submit it!
- There are no limits to the number of applications in different categories. However, quality wins over quantity!
WAYS TO PARTICIPATE
WORKSHOPS
Whether you're new to FABx events or have attended many, workshops are a great way to share your knowledge with the Fab Lab network and other attendees. They can be theoretical or hands-on and cover a wide range of topics. From simple lasering to hacking a machine, making wearables, aligning your Fab Lab programs with SDGs, sharing machine maintenance tips or experience with STEM education, workshops cover the diverse interests and themes of the conference.
Program segment:
- Afternoon sessions
Formats:
- 2–4 hour hands-on, during which you actually make something, 10–20 participants
- 2–4 hour theoretical, for sharing know-how or ideation, 10–30 participants
What to expect:
- For hands-on workshops, you can choose materials up to a certain price level. You can specify the materials once your workshop is pre-approved. Most standard materials used in Fab Labs will be available.
- For complex hands-on workshops, a multi-day format is possible. Once approved, please specify the number of days. For example, a multi-step project can be completed in 2-4 hour sessions over 2-3 consecutive days.
- Most standard Fab Lab machines will be available. You may be granted access to specific machines for workshop preparation or activities, if needed. Please note that MIT has specialized machines that may be available for workshops as well.
- For theoretical workshops basic equipment such as white boards, flip charts, screens, and markers are usually available. We recommend bringing your own laptop or personal computing device, whether for leading or participating in a workshop.
RESEARCH PAPERS
Share your innovative ideas, groundbreaking studies, and impactful projects by submitting a research paper. We invite researchers from a wide range of disciplines with interest in digital fabrication and the Fab Lab movement, as well as computer science, engineering, science and technology, business and management, media and design, education, urban studies, and more.
Program segment:
- Afternoon sessions and Fab Conference
Formats:
- 2-round submission and in-person presentations during the afternoon sessions. Research highlights will be presented on the main stage.
What to expect:
- Research paper submissions will undergo a committee review according to rigorous criteria.
- The best paper will have a chance to present on the big stage and will receive an honorary award.
- All peer-reviewed and accepted papers will be published with open access on Zenodo.
- The deadline for submitting the full paper is TBD.
- Research papers must be submitted through EasyChair, not through this webiste. This platform also includes relevant criteria and deadlines for submission.
FAB BLASTS
Do you have a unique perspective, experience, expertise, or knowledge to share? Have you developed a new project, initiative, or product? Do you want to tell the story of how your latest Fab Lab maker project went from “I’ll finish this in 4 hours” to a month-long journey? Share your insights with the community and spark connections to explore your topic further. We encourage you to align your talk with this year’s theme: Re-imagining the future.
Program segment:
- Fab Conference and Afternoon sessions
Formats:
- 10-30 minute fast talks
What to expect:
- The most exciting and interesting talks will be given an opportunity to present on the main venue stage!
- You can count on having a proper setup, including a screen and other audio-visual equipment (depending on room/stage type).
- Your proposal should be clear and concise, while explaining the value of your talk to the FAB26 attendees.
WORKING GROUPS
Working group sessions provide an excellent opportunity to meet in-person and collaboratively shape the roadmap for the coming year. These groups focus on specific projects, initiatives, or networks, both existing and new – such as learning programs under the Academany ecosystem, regional or national Fab Lab networks, or other initiatives within the global Fab Lab network. The goal is to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participants with diverse backgrounds and expertise.
Program segment:
- Morning sessions
Formats:
- 1–2 hour group meeting with approximately 20-50 participants.
What to expect:
- Working groups usually have an appointed leader who facilitates the session.
- Basic equipment such as white boards, flip charts, screens, and markers are usually available.
DISTRIBUTED FAB FESTIVAL
Join us in our efforts to promote the legacy of the next 25 years of Fab Labs to the general public, spanning across the states of New England. Through hands-on making, Fab Labs, mobile Fab Labs, and digital fabrication, we’ll highlight key topics such as localized production, sustainability, innovation, and technical and STEM education – all in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. But it’s not just about sharing; it’s also about connecting. Showcase your Fab Lab, projects, or initiatives to the community and expand your network. Let’s come together to celebrate creativity, innovation, and the spirit of making!
Program segment:
- Fab Festival, August 1st
- Open to the Public
Formats:
- Hands-on workshops for the general public with digital fabrication programming suitable for families and new makers
- Your Fab Lab/Maker space presentation – an overview of your lab, community, programs, or special projects
What to expect:
- Remember that the content should be suitable for people without prior knowledge of digital fabrication.
