One of the world’s largest tech, innovation, music, film and gaming festivals, South by Southwest (SXSW), is coming to Sydney next year.

In a major coup for the capital of NSW, the first international version of the famous annual event from Austin, Texas will take place October 15-22, 2023 in Sydney†

SXSW Sydney will annually bring together some of the world’s most inspired thinkers and creatives to explore future trends and emerging technology.

SXSW Sydney is a partnership with TEG, the NSW Government & Destination NSW. It will be the annual Asia-Pacific episode of the 36-year-old event, held in Austin each March.

TEG CEO Geoff Jones, SXSW Sydney producer said the event is unparalleled internationally and has launched the careers of so many creative professionals.

“By presenting the creative industries of the Asia-Pacific to the world, SXSW Sydney will establish a new SXSW touchpoint, enabling the international and cross-industry connections that deliver the most innovative products and content,” he said.

“These are the Olympic Games of creative industry events and SXSW Sydney will highlight the future in culture, music, screen, gaming, technology and innovation. The city will come alive with more than 1,000 experiences, including keynote speakers, inspirational panels and summits, live game sessions, screenings, product demonstrations, artist performances and countless opportunities to network at parties and special events.”

Part of the Texan original is the SXSW pitch competition for founders. The 2023 SXSW Pitch will feature 40 interactive technology companies from eight different categories: artificial intelligence, speech and robotics; Enterprise and smart data; entertainment, media and content; food, nutrition and health; Future of work; Innovative world technologies; Metaverse & Web3; and Smart Cities, Transport & Sustainability.

SXSW Co-Founder and CEO Roland Swenson said: “The goal of SXSW is to help creative people achieve their goals, and Sydney is the ideal city to serve as a home for the collaborative work that exists across the many industries we serve. bring together. †

Industry professionals, talent, partners and more can register their interest in the event here†

Stuart Ayres, NSW’s Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, said SXSW Sydney is the biggest event to come to Australia since Vivid.

“Sydney is Australia’s economic and recreational gateway and a leader in technological innovation, with a global reputation for hosting major international events that capture the world’s attention,” he said.

“SXSW Sydney will deliver significant benefits to NSW’s visitor economy, with unparalleled networking opportunities to advance our tech and creative industries.”

Register your interest in SXSW Sydney at: sxswsydney.com†