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Be a part of one of the most diverse, collaborative, and inventive communities in the world! Learn how to participate in one of the many SXSW competitions and awards.

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Jennifer Touch – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Aaron Rogosin

Jennifer Touch – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Aaron Rogosin

Get Involved at SXSW

 

Calling all creatives! Each year, discover numerous participation opportunities for SXSW including proposing a Conference session through PanelPicker®, performing at the Music Festival, pitching your tech startup to industry judges, premiering your project at the Film & TV Festival, and more.

Explore categories below for important deadlines, eligibility requirements, and more on how to become part of the SX event each March in Austin, TX.

Awards

Finalists and honorees are announced later in the season. During SXSW in March, various ceremonies are held to celebrate these creatives and announce the winners. Explore our Awards page for a complete list of awards categories, finalists, and winners.

See You at SXSW 2026

Join us for SXSW 2026 from March 12-18 in Austin, TX. Explore participation opportunities and stay tuned for announcements throughout the season. Subscribe to Event Updates and community newsletters.

Ash – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Michael Buckner

Ash – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Michael Buckner

Showcase Applications

Take the stage in some of Austin's most popular venues with an audience from around the globe. Don't miss your chance to turn your career up a notch.

Apply To Perform
Suichu Spica – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Jon Currie

Suichu Spica – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Jon Currie

SXSW Pitch

The SXSW Pitch startup competition features some of the global startup ecosystem's most exciting and innovative tech. Finalists have raised more than $23.2 billion in funding since 2009. Join the ranks of SXSW Pitch greats – learn more about 2026 Categories and eligibility.

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SXSW Pitch Awards – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Miguel Esparza

SXSW Pitch Awards – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Miguel Esparza

Innovation Awards

The SXSW Innovation Awards recognize the most exciting creative developments and cutting-edge technological achievements in the connected world. Five finalists in each category will be chosen to exhibit their projects at the 7th annual Innovation Awards Finalist Showcase during SXSW.

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Innovation Awards – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Vanessa Velasquez

Innovation Awards – SXSW 2025 – Photo by Vanessa Velasquez

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SXSW News

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See You Next Year

Join us at SXSW 2026 from March 12-18 in Austin, TX. Learn more about presale badges and event updates.

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Student Discount

Currently enrolled students may apply for an exclusive SXSW Badge discount. Explore badge discounts for students and recent graduates to attend SXSW 2025!

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