SXSW EDU hosts two competitions, the Launch Startup Competition and the Student Impact Challenge, that showcase early-stage startups, initiatives, and solutions, ultimately connecting the broader community to those ideas for impact.

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 services. Selected companies will pitch their startups in front of a panel of judges, as well as a live audience, on stage at SXSW EDU 2026.

Past winners of the SXSW EDU Launch Startup Competition have gone on to achieve remarkable success, securing funding, partnerships, and widespread recognition in the education industry.

Dive Into 2026 Finalists

The Student Impact Challenge 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. The challenge provides students with a remarkable opportunity to share their talents, validate and refine their ideas, and gain experience. Selected finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their idea in front of a panel of judges, as well as a live audience at SXSW EDU 2026. This year's competition is presented by The Allstate Foundation, which empowers youth to serve and improve communities.

Dive Into 2026 Finalists