SXSW values community input and involvement, so the two-step online process PanelPicker® was developed to encourage the SXSW community to enter proposals and have a significant voice in daytime Conference programming. The SXSW community is then able to browse proposals, leave comments, and vote to help shape the March event.

PanelPicker Dates

Applications are now open for the 2019 SXSW PanelPicker. Learn more about the Application Process, tips for creating a successful proposal, and Community Voting below.

Enter Your Session Idea for SXSW 2019

Stay tuned to SXSW News and the online Schedule as 2018 programming is announced throughout the season, including the SXSW community-curated sessions from PanelPicker.

During the open application process from June 25 – July 20, 2018, we encourage the community to upload proposals related to interactive, film and, music industries in variety of session formats including panels, solo presentations, workshops, and more.

The PanelPicker® is a two-step online process that allows the SXSW community to have a significant voice in Conference programming for SXSW as well as SXSW EDU and SXSW Gaming.

To begin, simply create a new user account or login at panelpicker.sxsw.com. If you created a general SXSW account in 2013 or later, you will be able to use the same login and password for PanelPicker. Each individual account may enter only one (1) proposal for the SXSW Conference. Explore our 25 Tracks of programming including descriptions and dates on the SXSW Conference page.

Enter Your Session Idea for SXSW 2019

Tips for Success

Browse tips for creating a successful proposal below and stay tuned to SXSW News for more PanelPicker information and updates.

• Follow the instructions and read the PanelPicker FAQ for important information about SXSW and more valuable tips for creating a great proposal.
• Create a future-focused, original proposal that shows what you’re passionate about.
• Depth and specificity – the more specific a proposal is, the better. Drill down to what really matters.
• Your title should reflect your description – think simple, accurate, and succinct. Tip: Avoid all CAPS titles.
• Diversity matters – all panels (3-4 person sessions) must include diversity in gender, race, location and employment of speakers, and diversity in thought and opinion.
• Include a video with your proposal. Your speaking abilities matter and we’d like to see them. No fancy production required.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread. Did we mention to proofread? Once you have completed your draft idea and clicked “Enter My Proposal,” you will NOT be able to edit your idea. Be sure you have reviewed your proposal carefully.
• Meet the deadline. The deadline for 2019 PanelPicker entry is July 20, 2018 at 11:59pm PT.

Enter Your Session Idea for SXSW 2019

FAQ

Read the PanelPicker FAQ for important information about SXSW, the PanelPicker entry process, and valuable tips.

All ideas received during the PanelPicker® entry period will be posted online for the community to vote from August 6 – August 30, 2018. It’s as easy as “review, comment, and vote” to help shape SXSW programming.

Community votes comprise 30% of the final decision plus input of the SXSW Staff (30%) and Advisory Board (40%) helps ensure that less well-known voices have as much of a chance as being selected to speak at SXSW as individuals with large online followings. Together these percentages help determine the final content lineup.

Public Votes: 30%
Who knows what you want to see at SXSW better than you? Your input is very important in terms of shaping the look and feel of the March event.

SXSW Advisory Board: 40%
A group of industry experts from around the world, the SXSW Advisory Board provides significant feedback on all entries.

SXSW Staff: 30%
With years of experience programming this event, SXSW staffers work to fill any gaps in relevant subject matter, striking a balance between new and veteran speakers.

Go To PanelPicker

If you are selected as SXSW speaker, you have access to a limited number of rooms being protected for participants through SXSW Housing & Travel. Rooms are limited to one per registrant and will sell out fast so be sure to make your hotel reservation as soon as you are registered. Requests can be completed in your Shopping Cart or SXSW Social account. In the meantime, check out SXSW Housing & Travel for more information about our hotels, pricing, reservation policies, and travel information.