SXSW EDU hosts competitions that serve as a vehicle to elevate and honor the work of trailblazers in the space. These competitions are about showcasing fresh ideas and solutions, and ultimately connecting the broader community to those ideas for impact.

Competition hallmarks include a lineup of finalists selected through an arduous application process, as well as emcees, judges, and coaches that are hand-picked for their experience and expertise. Historically, these events have celebrated early-stage startups, the design of physical learning environments, and student entrepreneurs.

For 2021 the Launch competition will be part of the SXSW EDU Online digital experience, March 9-11.

Launch celebrates emerging innovations in learning with a fast-paced pitch competition featuring early-stage startups. The competition is an opportunity for early-stage companies seeking market exposure, investment, and strategic partnerships to showcase their innovative products. Selected companies will pitch in front of a panel of industry experts and educators, as well as an audience at SXSW EDU Online 2021.

Apply by Friday, January 8, 2021, to have your company considered for Launch occurring at SXSW EDU Online, March 9-11, 2021.

Competition Eligibility Requiremements

• The SXSW EDU Launch competition is open to early-stage startup companies in the education market.
• 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.
• Companies who have raised over $5 million in funds from combined funding sources at the time of application are ineligible.
• Each applicant is only eligible to present in one of the SXSW startup events (SXSW Pitch or SXSW EDU Launch). In contrast, if you have applied for one of these events and were not accepted to participate, then please feel free to apply to SXSW EDU Launch.

Apply for Launch