We wanted to give you a sense of the first round of sessions for the SXSW Conferences. Spanning all 12 Tracks, these 50+ sessions have something for everyone. You can browse the full slate of speakers and sessions announced at the schedule, but here’s a look at the featured sessions from this initial drop. Read more about all 50+ sessions announced here.
Brand & Marketing
How CMOs are Rewriting the Rules of Connection
Why Saying Yes to the Unthinkable Works
Creator Economy
A Conversation with Jack Conte
Social Media Masterclass 2026 with Ex-YouTube & Instagram Insider
Sports & Gaming
SuperJoost’s State of Play 2026
Startups
The Latticework of Mental Models For a Great Life!
Tech & AI
5 Non-Obvious Secrets of Human Connection (For Love & Profit)
5 Traits of Successful AI Projects: From Pilot to Real ROI
Amy Webb Launches 2026 Emerging Tech Trend Report
Breaking Through Barriers to Innovation: Lessons from Space and Earth
How to Design a Company That AI Can’t Outpace
Reclaiming our Humanity in the Age of AI
The Innovation Engine You’ve Never Heard of: Your Neighbor
The Science of Scaling: Using Data to Decide When—and How Fast—to Scale Revenue
Workplace
Actionable Ikigai: Career Planning in the age of AI
Film & TV
Trusted, Valued, Essential: Why PBS is Here to Stay, With or Without Federal Funding
Music
A Conversation with The All-American Rejects
Make Your Own Wave: Russ & Andreea Gleeson on Independence
SXSW 2026 Keynote & Featured Program is sponsored by Rivian
Rivian is an American automotive manufacturer that develops and builds category-defining electric vehicles and accessories. These innovative and technologically advanced products all share a common goal: preserving the natural world for generations to come.
