SXSW 2025 in Austin is open for business
As the SXSW Austin applications season opens, we share tips and guidance from Una Johnston and British Underground about PanelPicker, alongside other useful information about the conference.
'Where's the creativity in Quantum?' panellists on stage at SXSW 2024
PanelPicker opens Tuesday 25 June 2024
Entry deadline Sunday 21 July 2024
Una Johnston Senior Business Development Manager, UK & Ireland, from the SXSW team says: “I encourage folks to engage with PanelPicker in the next two months, as it gives you a voice in what programming is scheduled at SXSW.
"Last year’s PanelPicker had 275 proposals from the UK with over 70% from London. Of these, 42 were accepted. There were 160 speakers from the UK. I would love to see more proposals and speakers from the regions."
"If you’re submitting a proposal, encourage your friends to comment and vote for it, and you can promote it on your blog or on social media. Although remember, online self-promotion is best when done in moderation."
For more info: panelpicker.sxsw.com/about
Application tips
Successful proposals need to spark a conversation, introduce new innovations, discuss big ideas or analyse latest trends and research. Here are British Underground's top PanelPicker application tips:
Make a strong, succinct case, always referring back to the prompts
Make sure your panel idea is future-proof
You need a bold and eye-catching title
Passion is contagious. Put across your enthusiasm for the topic
Make sure you fill out ALL relevant sections
Connect the dots and make sure your panel is relevant to the event
The content and panelists need to highlight your unique take on the topic
Update your channels. Update your social media, website and portfolio.
Useful resources
PanelPicker FAQ
Other SXSW 2025 key dates
Innovation Awards submissions open: 25 June – 3 November
Registration and hotel bookings open: 6 August
Film and TV Festival submissions open: 23 July
British Underground will be running our Future Art and Culture programme at SXSW 2025, supported by Arts Council England and the British Council, so please get in touch with us to discuss how we can support your ideas, particularly around topics exploring the intersection of art and technology. We are also keen to hear about projects that could be showcased in SXSW's XR Experience Exhibition.
For PanelPicker or any music-related SXSW questions, get in touch with stephanie@britishunderground.net.
Watch out for updates on British Underground's participation at SXSW Sydney and SXSW London coming soon.
