The 2025 SXSW Conference Track Sponsors highlight and reinforce our commitment to staying at the forefront of the ever-expanding social, technological, and creative spaces. These brands have positioned themselves alongside one of the SXSW programming tracks, which seamlessly ties into their core values. Achieve greater exploration from these expert speakers, ready to share successful insights and best practices about how you can incorporate fresh approaches into your own businesses.

Get to know the industry leaders who are making an impact on creative communities that share a similar appetite for forward-focused experiences. For a closer look at these tracks and their full descriptions, head over to our Conference page.

Dubai Future Foundation - 2050

The 2050 track focuses on long-term, big-picture thinking with an emphasis on scientific discovery. The programming features topics ranging from quantum computing and space exploration to robotics and foresight best practices. With the intent of fostering forward thinking, the Dubai Future Foundation strives to challenge the status quo and design a future impacted by leaders and disrupters. Dive into concepts that span across a broad spectrum from ideators who are working to build an innovative ecosystem and reimagine the possibilities of tomorrow.

Eli Lilly and Company - Health & Medtech

Situated at the crossroads of science and technology, the Health & MedTech track sessions explore the solutions and tools that provide better outcomes for medical professionals and patients everywhere. With almost 150 years of dedication, Eli Lilly and Company represents science advancements that solve some of the world's most significant health challenges. Learn from companies like Eli Lilly and Company, who continue to go above and beyond in the healthcare industry to deliver ground-breaking research that reflects the diversity of our world.

IBM - Artificial Intelligence

The rise of Artificial Intelligence introduced a ground-breaking era of technological innovation. This track explores not only technological advancements but also the numerous solutions and implications that continued adoption will have on society. In the spirit of advancing efficiency, IBM aspires to be the catalyst that makes the world work better. Find out how tech pioneers like IBM bring together technology and services to help solve business problems in an ever-changing landscape.

L’Oréal Groupe - Advertising & Brand Experience

Geared towards agencies and organizations that want to strengthen connections with their communities and clients, the Advertising & Brand Experience track programming features effective approaches to brand strategy as well as novel methods of engaging audiences through traditional and digital marketing practices. As the global leader in beauty and one of the largest advertisers worldwide, L'Oréal Groupe and its diverse portfolio of iconic brands are at the forefront of marketing innovation, creating culture-shaping campaigns that resonate with consumers globally. Discover key takeaways from global leaders like L’Oréal who understand the power of brands to create meaningful engagements and experiences for consumers as well as the responsibility of making a positive impact on society.

NRDC - Climate & Sustainability

Explore the most promising, solution-based innovations and strategies to mitigate climate change in the Climate & Sustainability track sessions. From sustainable building solutions to cutting-edge climate technologies, learn how organizations like the NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council) combine the power of environmental specialists and activists to confront the climate crisis and protect our planet. Be part of a conversation that fights for the rights of all people to build sustainable and healthy generations to come.

NOBULL - Startups

Be inspired and motivated by the successes and failures of a diverse array of founders, as well as the funders who backed their often unconventional efforts. If you want to translate your great startup idea into a successful reality, then the Startups track will give you a competitive advantage for the long adventure ahead. Along for the journey is NOBULL, a collective of entrepreneurs that prioritize showing up over showing off. Regardless of where you’re starting from, learn from devoted dreamers like NOBULL who can help encourage a willingness to improve and share the truth of how dedication makes hard work pay off.

Rivian - Transportation

New technology continues to transform the transportation ecosystem, driving a new era of connected, sustainable mobility, and enhanced passenger experience. The Transportation track is geared toward understanding the latest trends and best new ideas on how to move people and products. Harnessing the spirit of adventure is what makes Rivian a beacon of inspiration that ensures the world remains worth exploring. Together, Rivian and SXSW will spark electric conversations for those who are hardwired with a curiosity to invent a blueprint for improved efficiency and performance. Find out how transportation innovators like Rivian are creating solutions that shift consumer mindsets and inspire other visionaries to fundamentally change the way they operate.

YouTube - Creator Economy

An estimated 1 in 4 people worldwide contribute to the creator economy, the fastest-growing type of small business today. Within the Creator Economy track, discover innovative strategies for audience building and monetization, and gain insights into the future of this booming industry. There’s no real formula for overnight success, however, YouTube believes that change and growth are rooted in building communities through shared stories. Find out how social leaders like YouTube have paved the dynamic landscape of self-produced content for creators, their collaborators, and their communities.

Boost your SXSW Experience

Spark conversations on the newest innovations and advancements by connecting with an audience of changemakers from around the globe at SXSW. Grab a group and save with discounted rates for 10 or more. The SXSW Conference is the perfect opportunity for making connections, staying informed on trends, and finding inspiration for your own achievements. This is your chance to gain early insights into where industries are headed.

Photo by Roger Tam

The post The Trailblazers Behind the Tracks: Introducing the 2025 Conference Track Sponsors appeared first on SXSW.

South by Southwest is widely recognized as an early career hot spot for professional development. Don't miss your chance to develop a network that spans across the globe.

Need assistance making the case to your boss to send you to SXSW this March? We've put together a few tips and an email template to help you convince your boss to fund your SXSW journey.

Step 1: Choose Your Badge

Not sure which badge is right for you, or when to arrive? We’ve got your back. Use our SXSW Badge Quiz as your guide to the best badge and dates for you and your company’s needs. Review the SXSW Timeline for a visual overview of event programming dates.

Step 2: Add It Up

Once you know your badge type and dates, it’s time to crunch the numbers. Current badge prices can be found here, and your team can save even more with our group rates. Use your arrival date to find out an estimate for hotels using our SXSW hotel availability page. Check out our transportation options, and remember most SXSW venues are a short walk or ride from one another.

Step 3: Send The Email

Now to tie it all together. We’ve created a pre-filled email for you. Make sure to fill out the empty fields, and give it a close read before sending it off.

Hi [insert name here],

I’d like to discuss attending the 2025 SXSW Conference and Festivals from March [enter dates here] in Austin, Texas. Thousands of global creatives come together at SXSW for discovery, learning, and networking across the tech, film & tv, and music industries. A SXSW [Platinum, Interactive, Film & TV, Music] Badge will give me access to [remove those which don’t apply]:

- Insightful Keynotes and Featured Sessions from industry experts
- In-depth panels covering a wide range of topics across 24 tracks
- Mentor Sessions offering one-on-one coaching by industry professionals
- Networking opportunities to establish meaningful and lasting connections
- Workshops aimed at fostering professional skill enhancement
- Countless opportunities to discover “what’s next”

Attending SXSW will aid my professional growth, and I will be able to share valuable takeaways and insights with our entire team. The Conference tracks that I’m specifically interested in are:

- [Track 1]
- [Track 2]
- [Track 3]

I have estimated how much attendance costs:

- Travel: [Cost of Airfare/Travel]
- Lodging: [Cost of Hotel]
- Event Registration: [Cost for Badge]

If I register now, I can save the company money off the walk-up rate and have access to the best available hotel rates. SXSW also offers Group Registration rates for teams of 10 or more if we send a larger team. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to discussing this further.

Sincerely,
[insert name here]

Download Template

Need more help convincing? Hear what others have to say about SXSW.

Good luck and we hope to see you at SXSW 2025!

Discover Additional Discounts

Recent college graduates can unlock the Early Career discount - access 40% off your badge during your first year out of school, and 30% off throughout your second year in the professional world.

Plus, attend as a group to access exclusive group rates for each badge!

See You at SXSW 2025

Register today to lock in the lowest badge rates and best hotel options for March 7-15, 2025 in downtown Austin.

Sign up for SXSW email updates, check out the News feed, watch videos, and follow us on Bluesky, LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok to get the most up-to-date information.

Register Now

SXSW Attendees – Photo by Keira Lindgren

The post Convince Your Boss to Send You to SXSW 2025 appeared first on SXSW.

Join us for an exclusive look at the unimaginable potential of quantum computing from March 12-13. During two full days of dedicated quantum-related programming, explore its rapid growth and tech industry impact. Bonus, this quantum content seamlessly aligns with our Artificial Intelligence track (March 9-13), creating a can't-miss opportunity to explore both game-changing technologies in one power-packed week.

The post Expanded Quantum Programming Coming to SXSW 2025 appeared first on SXSW.

Returning for a second year to SXSW, the multi-day Foresight Master Class from the Future Today Institute will provide skills to unlock the incredible superpower of peering into the future of tech trends.

Over the course of four days at SXSW 2025, the Future Today Institute (FTI) will adapt its proprietary Foresight Master Class offerings into a six-session continuing education course, including elective course options to choose your own adventure. Attendees will learn FTI’s methodology and at the end be able to say they have basic foresight skills. SXSW registrants who attend two of the three Core classes and one Elective class will receive a certificate from FTI and SXSW credentialing their participation in Foresight Master Classes.

The post Future Today Institute’s Multi-day Foresight Master Class Returns to SXSW 2025 appeared first on SXSW.

Move the needle to your desired destination, South by Southwest. With SXSW 2025 on the horizon, the clock is ticking for businesses like yours to make their mark at one of the most influential events of the year. SXSW specializes in crafting high-impact marketing methods that drive results and captivate attendees. Take a look at three prime placements where you can expand your presence and make the most out of your time at SXSW 2025. Deliverable milestones are quickly approaching, so make sure you’re in on the action and find your unique marketing avenue.

Bring the Energy with an Official Event

Start off the first quarter with a bang by placing your company on one of the world’s largest stages. Of the many perks that come with hosting an Official Event, the ability to showcase your brand in front of registrants eager to make memories at SXSW is what makes this unique opportunity one that you can’t miss. Not only will you be able to host a customizable event, but your experience will be promoted across multiple official SXSW platforms to achieve maximum exposure and audience interaction. Design a transformative adventure and prepare to captivate visitors from the moment they step into your world.

Expo Excitement

When it comes to SXSW, don’t sleep on the SXSW Expo. With thousands of influential attendees passing through, providing a standout space can put your business directly in front of potential partners, customers, and collaborators. Create an attention-grabbing expo experience that drives meaningful engagement.

• Podcast Lounge Presenting Sponsorship: Curate a space for conversations to take place on the SXSW Expo show floor. The Podcast Lounge is a turnkey area for companies to host sessions that will be recorded by SXSW.
• SXSW Expo Pavilion Presenting Sponsorship: Within the Expo are 5 Pavilions that house a wide variety of industries. From social impact to entertainment, each pavilion can be sponsored by industry leaders like you.
• Exhibitor Booths: Expo booths are more than just a place to display products; they’re an opportunity to make a lasting impression and lifelong supporters. Contact us to secure your booth space.

Recharge with Lounges & Activations

With all of the exhilaration and anticipation of SXSW, bring self-care and refreshment to attendees in need of a reboot. SXSW Lounges are designated spaces for professionals to recharge and network. Integrating your product ensures that your brand stands out from the crowd while enhancing the overall experience for registrants that need a quick pick-me-up. Customize an invigorating space to feature your brand and allow thought leaders and creatives to engage with your company on an intimate level.

From larger-than-life carnivals to branded coffee lounges, there are many ways to market your company at SXSW 2025—the time to act is now! With SXSW just around the corner, take advantage of this moment to partner with us and set your brand up for success before the event kicks off. Find out how to awaken your brand audience at SXSW 2025.

Explore Marketing Opportunities

The post Don’t Sleep on SXSW: Last Chance for Partnership Opportunities appeared first on SXSW.

As the year comes to a close, don’t let significant marketing opportunities slip away. Head into the new year with exciting experiences to look forward to at SXSW 2025. From exhibitions and activations to simply attending with your peers, the value of SXSW is sure to give you more bang for your buck. Let's explore how to maximize your budget at SXSW!

Save BIG with Group Discounts

Gather a group of colleagues or friends to encourage group purchasing outside of a business setting, and take a break from the digital meetings to connect with your colleagues in a more authentic way. Bring your team of 10 or more to SXSW and foster stronger team-building. Enjoy Conference sessions and Keynotes, Music Festival showcases, Film & TV Festival screenings, and world-class exhibitions, while strengthening collaboration and unity through a shared, unforgettable experience.

Connect with different teams from across the globe and learn about ways they solve problems and spark creativity. Wrangle your group together and reinforce the importance of interactiveness by sharing takeaways, resources, and tips. You still have time to close out your quarterly budget on professional development with a fantastic deal! Register your team now and take advantage of Group Registration rates before they increase in the new year.

Become a SXSW Expo Exhibitor

Mindfully curated, the SXSW Expo displays brands, services, and products that will take attendees into the 22nd century and beyond. Swap business cards with industry leaders in technology, entertainment, design, social good, health + wellness, and more. Some of the world’s biggest pathfinders and playmakers in each of these industries make up the foundation of the SXSW Expo and entice tens of thousands of people to the show floor year-after-year.

This is your chance to meet hundreds of global exhibitors under one roof to ignite passions, collaborate, and share groundbreaking discoveries. Contact us to get started and lock in your booth space on the expo floor.

Encourage Meaningful Networking with Lounges & Activations

Provide an inviting and relaxing environment for attendees to connect with your brand in a personalized setting. With an official SXSW Lounge, registrants can network with each other while engaging with your activation and ambassadors in a meaningful way. Place your brand throughout high-traffic areas for attendees to interact with and enjoy.

• Registrant Lounge Activation - The SXSW Registrant Lounge is the go-to space for attendees to maximize their experience, offering daily complimentary drinks, food, and sponsor swag.
• Artist Lounge Activation - Activating in the Artist Lounge puts your brand directly in front of the talented musicians and management who make the SXSW Music Festival unforgettable.
• Networking Lounge Daily Takeover - Located in the highly anticipated SXSW Expo, engage with attendees eager to connect in the Networking Lounge.

Make the most of your Q4 budget with unforgettable brand awareness and involvement during SXSW. Join us at the largest stage for creatives, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders before it’s too late. Looking to curate a unique experience? Reach out to get the ball rolling for the new year!

Photos from top: SXSW 2024 Atmosphere by Tico Mendoza; SXSW 2024 Creative Industries Expo by Oscar Moreno; and SXSW 2024 Registration Lounge by David Brendan Hall

The post Make your Q4 Budget Count at SXSW appeared first on SXSW.

Experience the SXSW Effect and take part in hosting an official event at SXSW. Official Events are the best way to connect directly with your target audience, all while showcasing your product or service to thought leaders from around the world. With an official SXSW event, your brand will be listed in the SXSW Schedule, allowing attendees to find unforgettable events hosted by you. From parties and lounges to fully-immersive product activations, official SXSW events are creative avenues that can elevate your brand and captivate audiences.

Create Custom Experiences

Create custom, multi-day experiences with impressive activations that will be enjoyed by thousands of SXSW attendees. Work directly with our team of professionals to help turn your brand experience vision into reality. Not only will you get the chance to collaborate on brand integration opportunities, but you will also create memorable moments for registrants that last beyond the event.

Official Brand Houses

Bring your brand’s dream house to life! Expand your footprint by crafting a unique, branded pop-up location for one day or multiple days across SXSW 2025. Create a space that lets your brand shine and is the focal point for attendees. With access to prime locations during SXSW, put your product right in front of customers and watch their enjoyment in real time.

Grow Your Audience

Of the many perks that come with hosting an Official Event, the ability to position yourself in front of an audience of trailblazers eager to make memories at SXSW is what makes this unique opportunity one that you can’t miss. Not only will you be able to host a custom event, your event will be promoted across multiple official SXSW platforms. Don't miss out on the word-of-mouth buzz that creates excitement for your product and life-long followers for your brand.

Curate an unbelievable event that makes this conference and festival’s event a transformative experience. Be the brand that makes SXSW a must-attend for creatives, innovators and industry leaders. Contact us to get started. See you at SXSW 2025!

Top photo by Chia-Hsien Hut

The post The SXSW Effect: Be Part of Impactful Brand Experiences appeared first on SXSW.

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All session proposals received during the PanelPicker entry period are eligible for your vote to help shape the 2025 Conference programming for SXSW and SXSW EDU.

How to Vote

Ready, set, vote! To participate in the voting process from August 6–18, visit panelpicker.sxsw.com/vote and sign in or create an account.

Once you are signed in, filter proposals by conference (SXSW or SXSW EDU), format, title, description, tags, and speakers in the search field.

Each voter can vote once per proposal – selecting "arrow up" for yes or "arrow down" for no. Have a question for the organizer? The Comments section is a great place to post all of your questions and leave constructive comments about the proposals you vote on.

Inside the PanelPicker Process

Your input is very important in terms of shaping the look and feel of the March event. Community votes make up 30% of the final programming decision. Plus, input from the SXSW Staff (30%) and PanelPicker Evaluators (40%) helps ensure that lesser-known voices have as much of a chance of being selected to speak at SXSW as individuals with large online followings.

PanelPicker Evaluators consist of 200+ industry experts from around the globe and make up 40% of the PanelPicker final programming decision. Evaluators provide feedback on all submitted proposals. SXSW Staff input comes in at 30% with a goal to fill any gaps in relevant subject matter, striking a balance between new and veteran speakers. Together these percentages help determine the final Conference lineup announced later in the season.

Pro tip: Subscribe to the Conference Community Newsletter to stay in the SX know.

The post PanelPicker Community Voting Ends Sunday, August 18 appeared first on SXSW.