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SXSW EDU Launch

The SXSW EDU Launch Startup Competition is an opportunity for early-stage education startups seeking market exposure, investment, and strategic partnerships.

Apply

The SXSW EDU Launch Startup Competition is an opportunity for early-stage education startups seeking market exposure, investment, and strategic partnerships.

Why Apply?

The SXSW EDU Launch Startup Competition offers early-stage education startups the chance to gain market exposure, investment, and strategic partnerships. Selected companies will pitch to industry experts, investors, and educators at SXSW EDU 2026. Finalists compete for awards based on creativity, potential, functionality, team strength, and impact. The competition provides networking opportunities and access to the SXSW EDU community, making it ideal for startups looking to showcase their innovative products and services in the education sector.

Who can apply?

  • Early-Stage Startup

    Open to early-stage startup companies in the education market.

  • Established Company

    Companies must be established with a management team and public-facing website, able to convey a sustainable business model and able to demonstrate user traction, engagement, and adoption metrics.

  • Funding Limit

    Companies who have raised over $8 million in funds from combined funding sources at the time of application are ineligible.

  • Exclusive Participation

    Each applicant is only eligible to present in one of the SXSW startup events (SXSW Pitch or SXSW EDU Launch).

  • Non-Repeat Applicants

    Past SXSW EDU Launch Startup Competition finalists and semifinalists are not eligible to apply.

Timeline

  • 01 January 2025: Applications open
  • 02 November 2025: Application deadline
  • 09-12 March 2026: SXSW EDU Launch event

Benefits

  • Market Exposure

    Selected companies will pitch their startups in front of a panel of industry experts, early adopters, investors, and educators, as well as a live audience at SXSW EDU 2026.

  • Networking Opportunities

    Finalists and semifinalists have access to additional opportunities to showcase their products and services and network with the SXSW EDU community.

Apply