Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at SXSW

At SXSW, we are dedicated to celebrating the unique identities, contributions, and lived experiences of the entire SXSW community. Creative people from all walks of life are the foundation of what makes our event so special. And we know the importance of fostering an inclusive community for everyone goes beyond the March event, which is why we have established the SXSW DEI Council.

By breaking down barriers and empowering each creative person to achieve their goals, we uphold the vision and values our company was based on.

"The diversity of our local and international community is an integral part of what makes SXSW the vibrant, innovative, and special event that it is today.” – Cydney Washington-Moore, Lead SXSW Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Councilmember

Community Conversations

Our Community Conversation events are designed to connect the SXSW and SXSW EDU team with thought leaders and innovators in our community. Through these interactive and enriching events, our goal is to further the personal and professional development of our colleagues while deepening our connections with leaders in the community.

Business Mixers

Our Business Mixers provide a vital platform for Austin business owners and affiliates to connect, network, and share best practices. By bringing together a vibrant array of business leaders, we aim to build a stronger, more interconnected community that helps these organizations gain visibility and scale their operations.

Community Partnerships

Through strategic partnerships and volunteer initiatives, the DEI Council hopes to channel the resources and talents of our staff and organization into positive change on behalf of our community. From our work with Austin-based organizations like Smile Blaack and Universal Tech Movement, we’re working to put our company culture and values into action.

Corporate Social Responsibility at SXSW

HAAM’s Battle of the Bands

SXSW is a proud sponsor of Austin’s HAAM Corporate Battle of the Bands where each year, professionals are given a once in a lifetime chance to unleash their inner rock star for a good cause. Austin-based businesses pull their talented employees together and showcase their unsung talents as they compete at the award-winning ACL Live at the Moody Theater. Competing bands rock-out during 12-minute sets, working to impress a panel of celebrity and music industry judges who ultimately decide which band will leave with the title of Austin’s Best Corporate Band.

Annual Giving

SXSW is proud to support a wide range of organizations doing important work in our community. Below are just a few of the nonprofits we’re honored to partner with. Join us in supporting these valued nonprofits by donating or volunteering your time. Together, we can help those in need.

• Central Texas Food Bank
• Safe Austin
• SIMS Foundation
• World Central Kitchen

SXSW Has PRIDE 🌈

Austin LGBTQ Chamber Partnership

SXSW is proud to partner with the Austin LGBTQ Chamber to create unique and inclusive experiences for folks in the queer community year after year. We also partner with queer business leaders throughout the year to support our business and community-oriented initiatives.

2025 Pride Showcases in Austin, TX

Each year, the SXSW Pride committee supports and celebrates the diverse and vibrant LGBTQ+ community through a number of community events and initiatives. This year, they hosted a series of music showcases and fundraisers to raise money for the Transgender Education Network of Texas (TENT), the largest statewide, BIPOC trans-led, trans-focused policy, education, and advocacy organization in the state of Texas.

SXSW In Action

See photos from some of our past events.

Smile Blaack hosted at the SXSW Center

Habitat for Humanity

Austin Pride Parade 2023

Keep your eyes peeled for various opportunities to connect, collaborate, and celebrate diversity and subscribe to SXSW Event Updates!