The Future is Freelance: How to Embrace the Freelance Economy

Freelancing has been a trending career path for years, but 2020 proved that the freelance lifestyle and all that comes with it — flexibility, working with people anywhere in the world, and doing meaningful work — is here to stay. Freelancing goes beyond the gig economy — freelancing offers many the opportunity to design their careers and lives in a sustainable way.

This panel will feature diverse perspectives from freelancers and those who hire freelancers and will discuss the questions: How can we, as freelancers, build and maintain a sustainable career? What steps need to be taken to ensure the freelance economy is inclusive? And how can those who want to hire freelancers take the right steps to do so?

This workshop is open to anyone, including freelancers, self-employed, those who are considering freelancing, and those who want to hire freelancers.

Parking & Transportation:

Located on the backside of City Hall, there is paid parking in the City Hall garage, paid street parking nearby, and of course, public transportation. Be sure to check out our sustainable transportation recommendations. This venue is ADA accessible.

ADW21 Event Information:

The health and safety of our attendees, participants, and greater community is extremely important to us. Please be sure to check out our Health & Safety at ADW21 page for the latest safety updates and policies surrounding in-person events.

You’ll be emailed any additional instructions for how to join the event at least 24-hours prior to the event start time. The information will be sent via Eventbrite so please check your spam if you don't see it in your inbox.

Austin Design Week is committed to a harassment-free event experience for everyone. Our Code of Conduct can be found here. We are also committed to creating an inclusive, accessible space. All virtual events will have automated captioning. If you need additional accommodations, please email us at info@austindesignweek.org as soon as possible to let us know.

For the full Austin Design Week schedule, check out austindesignweek.org.