Join us for MakerDate!

Step into the future with us for this year’s MakerDate: a live & silent date auction fundraiser for Assemble’s free STEAM education programs!

The MakerDate Auction is Assemble’s largest fundraiser, held every other year. This year, it will take place on September 7th at The Maverick. It takes the idea of a “date auction” & turns it upside-down to match people with local artists, crafters, technologists, & experts across many fields to learn a new skill or craft something amazing! It’s like a play-date for grown-ups! Attendees bid through live & silent auctions to connect with a local expert who will guide them on a making adventure. You could craft a unique piece of jewelry, practice portrait photography, make nostalgic spin-art, learn the intricacies of beer brewing, or even create an edible painting – there will be so much to explore with MakerDate!

The theme for MakerDate 2024 is The Future!

We invite everyone to join the fun in costume!

Monies raised during the night will support Assemble’s free educational programming to empower people to create, connect, learn, & transform together. The possibilities are endless at MakerDate. It’s truly an experiential event!

What to expect at MakerDate:

  • Auctions of amazing skills from local experts (Live Auction & Silent Auction)
  • Delicious food & drinks
  • Raffles & prizes
  • Hands-on activities
  • Green-screen picture station
  • Music & cosmic vibes
  • Spectacular fun for a good cause!

Over 20 Makers, food, an open bar, music, hands-on activities, & more, MakerDate will be a night you don’t want to miss.

Event tickets include access to the open bar + plenty of delicious hors d’oeuvres.

All proceeds raised at MakerDate support Assemble’s STEAM education programs.

Stay tuned for ticket sales!

To learn more about the event, email thea@assemblepgh.org.

 

MAKERDATE IS PRESENTED BY:  

Special thanks to all of our supporters & sponsors!

Call for Makers!

Calling all Pittsburgh Creatives!
Are you a Maker? Makers are artists, crafters, foodies, technologists, scientists, designers, innovators, engineers, entrepreneurs, nerds, and you!
Assemble is seeking Makers for our unique and interactive annual fundraising event, MakerDate!
MakerDate fosters creative connections through a live and silent auction that pairs local Makers with curious skill-seekers. It is like a playdate for grownups where you get to meet a local expert and learn how to make something. Past Makers are encouraged to apply!
Assemble is all about bringing folks together to build confidence through making, from kids to adults. By being a Maker for MakerDate, you are signing up to share how you create with someone who is interested in learning from you!
Here’s how it works:
  • At MakerDate, you can be a Maker in the live auction (on stage presenting about your “date” experience, must be able to attend Sept. 7), or in the silent auction (NOT on stage, date info is displayed for guests to bid on privately).
  • When someone wins your date, you’ll be connected at the event to exchange contact info
  • Together, you both plan a time & place to conduct your Maker Date! (The Date does not happen at the MakerDate event)
Dates are typically 3-4 hours depending on the subject matter or medium; dates can also be in multiple sessions. (Example: throw a pot on a wheel in session 1, glaze during session 2).
Makers typically donate their time and the necessary materials for their “date” during the experience.  Please let us know if access to materials and space is a barrier for you – Assemble is happy to host your date!
At the end of the day, it’s about connection and learning from our creative community! MakerDate experiences have led to one-of-a-kind projects, new patrons, relationships, and even folks getting jobs!

MakerDate 2024 is set for Saturday, September 7 at The Maverick from 7-10pm

The Maverick is located at 120 S Whitfield St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.

Deadline to apply is May 3, 2024. All applicants will be notified by email in early June.