SXSW EDU Conference & Festival
March 13–16, 2027
Access
4
Days
1K+
Speakers
300+
Sessions & Workshops
120+
Networking Opportunities
50+
Interactive Exhibits
2
Live Pitch Competitions
Creating a new tomorrow for learners everywhere.
Featuring a diverse array of speakers and sessions, competitions, performances, and film screenings, the SXSW EDU program fosters learning and discovery for all education stakeholders.
Thought Leaders Moving Learning Forward
Explore past SXSW EDU speakers.
Mychal Threets
Featured Speaker
Monica J. Sutton
Keynote Speaker
Casey McQuiston
Featured Speaker
Laurie Santos
Keynote Speaker
Spencer Russell
Keynote Speaker
Jennifer B. Wallace
Keynote Speaker, Featured Speaker
Yung Pueblo
Keynote Speaker
Kristi Yamaguchi
Featured Speaker
SXSW EDU Conference
Discover the Experience
The tracks, formats, and networking opportunities that shape the SXSW EDU experience are designed to inspire learning, foster connection, and spark new ideas. Whether you’re exploring emerging trends, engaging in dynamic conversations, or building new relationships, there’s something for every attendee to discover.
Early Learning
Sessions that focus on issues impacting learning starting from birth, including child development, parenting and child care, best teaching practice for young learners, and beyond
K-12 Education
From primary to secondary education these sessions focus on issues impacting the practice and administration in classrooms, as well as initiatives and work that impact learners of school age and adolescence
Higher Education
Whether discussing issues impacting universities, community colleges, or non-traditional pathways, these sessions address post-secondary learning in all of its forms
Continuing Education
From workforce upskilling and re-training to innovative approaches to adult learning, these sessions focus on learning that happens once learners leave traditional levels of schooling
Convergence
For sessions and discussions on issues that span multiple levels of education or speak to initiatives that address pathways between education levels
Films & Performances
From thought-provoking films to unforgettable live performances, discover the experiences that bring creativity and storytelling to life at SXSW EDU.
Films
Documentary & Narrative Screenings
SXSW EDU celebrates the power of film to explore critical topics and issues impacting education through narratives and documentary film screenings. Many screenings conclude with a Q&A discussion featuring the filmmakers and film subjects for a deeper connection.
Performances
Performing Arts as a Vehicle for Learning
Adding a unique element to the program that is both educational and entertaining, performances shine a light on performing arts as a vehicle for deeper learning, including theatrical groups, staged readings, music groups, spoken word, dance, and more.
Live Pitch Competitions
Launch Startup Competition
Apply by Nov 1
The Launch Startup Competition, presented by Walton Family Foundation, is an opportunity for early-stage education startups seeking market exposure, investment, and strategic partnerships to showcase their innovative products and connect with the global network of innovators, decision-makers, and investors.
Early Entry Deadline | Application Fee: $60 | June 23 – September 11
Final Entry Deadline | Application Fee: $100 | September 12 – November 1
16
YEARS
23
WINNERS
116
FINALISTS
$75M+
RAISED BY
PAST WINNERS
Receive two (2) complimentary credentials to SXSW EDU 2027
Gain access to the SXSW EDU Startup Bootcamp and other exclusive workshops and opportunities for startups at SXSW EDU
Pitch live to an audience of educators, investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators for the opportunity to win one out of three awards
Gain access to coaching and mentorship sessions with established startup advisors
Participate in our Launch Spotlight reception where teams can connect with attendees, demo products and receive real-time feedback
Receive two (2) complimentary SXSW Platinum credentials and the opportunity to participate in select SXSW Pitch events
Student Impact Challenge
apply by oct 25
The Student Impact Challenge, presented by The Allstate Foundation, celebrates student achievement and agency in solving the most pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges by providing a platform for high school students to showcase their innovative ideas. The challenge invites students to submit their idea for a current project that is making an impact in their community and provides students with a remarkable opportunity to share their talents, validate and refine their ideas, and gain experience.
10
YEARS
10
WINNERS
52
FINALISTS
6
COUNTRIES
REPRESENTED
Receive six (6) complimentary credentials to SXSW EDU 2027
Pitch live to an audience of educators, investors, and changemakers for the opportunity to win the Student Impact Award
Have access to coaching sessions with savvy innovators and social impact business strategists to refine your project idea and perfect your pitch
Opportunities to attend programming tailored for youth changemakers
Connections to future mentors to propel your project forward
Networking Opportunities
Inspiration and discovery await at SXSW EDU with fun and meaningful opportunities for networking and connection.
Meetups
Meetups are topic-focused networking events selected through PanelPicker®, which give communities at SXSW EDU the chance to connect with others who share similar passions or interests.
Mentor Program
Attendees can meet with experienced industry leaders in a one-on-one setting and in group discussions for personalized advice, support, and insights to help them navigate challenges, accelerate their growth, and make a meaningful impact in their careers and beyond.
Pop-Up Dinners
Network with fellow attendees while enjoying a taste of Austin at pop-up dinners across downtown. Dinner reservations will have already been made, so just show up hungry to be seated with other attendees interested in meeting new people.
Socials
Mix and mingle at a number of special events including happy hours, parties, and more.
Walking Tours
Guided, hour-long walking tours around downtown provide a unique opportunity to explore Austin like a local! Connect with fellow attendees to experience the SXSW EDU vibe and culture on a new level.
Lounges
Scattered throughout the SXSW EDU venues, custom lounges supported by sponsors offer a unique space to relax, recharge, and connect with others.
Coffee Breaks
Look forward to morning coffee breaks and grab some fuel while making connections.
Snack Breaks
Take a break in the afternoon and stop by the expo for some snacks while you explore the booths during the Snack Breaks.
PARTICIPATE
Be a Part of SXSW EDU 2027
Community participation drives SXSW EDU forward. Learn more about current opportunities to get involved at the 2027 event.
PanelPicker® Voting
Closing AUG 23
Help decide what sessions make it to the SXSW EDU stage by voting on your favorite session proposals in PanelPicker.
Film Application
Closing Sept 27
Submit a narrative or documentary film exploring critical topics impacting education around the world.
One-on-one Mentor Application
Closing Sept 27
Share your knowledge and expertise in one-on-one conversations with SXSW EDU attendees.
Roundtable Application
Closing Sept 27
Guide a group conversation with SXSW EDU attendees to share perspectives, exchange ideas, and collaborate with a diverse community.
Student Impact Challenge Application
Closing Oct 25
High school students can submit a proposal to showcase their solutions to the most pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Launch Startup Competition Application
Closing nov 1
Submit your early-stage education startups for a chance to compete in a live, fast-paced pitch competition.
Exhibit in the Expo
Facilitate a focused discussion with peers around a topic you know deeply.
march 13-16, 2027
One Badge. All of SXSW EDU.
Unlock access to every session, workshop, meetup, film, competition, and more across the SXSW EDU Conference & Festival.
SXSW EDU Badge
$545.00
For educators, innovators, and education professionals — explore bold ideas, discover emerging technologies, and collaborate across the global education community to move learning forward.
Full Access
- Daily Keynote & Featured Sessions
- 300+ Sessions & Workshops
- Mentorship & Meetups
- Live Competitions
- Film Screenings & Performances
- Expo & Activations
- Premium Networking
- Additional Perks
Frequently Asked Questions
Once you register to attend, you will receive access to book through SXSW EDU Housing, where you can book at exclusive rates at the best downtown hotels.
We have answers! Check out our FAQs.
