Explore the Many Ways to Network at SXSW EDU 2025

There is so much to learn from the sessions, performances, and films at SXSW EDU, but don’t miss out on the opportunities to learn from your peers.

For many attendees, forming and fostering connections is a principal goal. The networks we establish within our industry, workplace, and personal lives can have a profound impact, and can last long after the event has ended. The 2025 program consists of various formal and informal networking opportunities where you can form these relationships.

Find the networking opportunities that work best to help you reach your networking goals:

Online Networking

SXSW EDU GO

Gain direct access to the registrant directory, and connect with and message other attendees right in your pocket with the SXSW EDU GO app for iOS and Android. Adjust your personal setting and get networking recommendations to help personalize your experience at SXSW EDU.

Contacts

Scan someone's digital badge in the mobile app to exchange contact information to continue the conversation. Be sure to update your profile with your contact information so other attendees can scan your digital badge to connect with you!

Social Events

Braindates

You can schedule a Braindate in the mobile app. It’s your gateway to one-on-one or small group discussions in the Braindate Lounge. Brainstorm, solve challenges, and share expertise while connecting with brilliant minds in the community. Use the Braindate platform to create or join interactive topics and tap into the collective wisdom of the SXSW EDU audience. Don’t miss this chance to connect, collaborate, and grow!

Coffee & Snack Breaks

Swing by the Expo and visit exhibitor booths with something to help keep your energy up during morning coffee breaks and afternoon snack breaks.

Pop-Up Dinners

Make new connections while enjoying a bite to eat at pop-up dinners across Austin’s downtown area. Dinner reservations have already been made, so all you need to worry about is showing up hungry. Please note that attendees are responsible for their own dinner expenses.

Walking Tours

Learn about Austin’s rich history and experience the city like a local with group walking tours of downtown Austin, Austin’s music culture, and art on the East side.

Parties

Early Bird Social

If you get to Austin early, pick up your badge and head over to the Hilton Austin Downtown right next door for the Early Bird Social on Sunday evening, March 3, where you can make connections before programming starts Monday.

SXSW EDU Opening Party

Celebrate the first day of programming with your fellow conference attendees at the opening party Monday evening.

Launch Spotlight

Join us in celebrating the finalists and runners up of the 2025 Launch Startup Competition and hear which teams have been awarded Tuesday evening at the Launch Spotlight, presented by Walton Family Foundation.

Student Impact Ice Cream Social

Swing by the Next Stage to celebrate the 2025 Student Startup Competition finalists and winners with ice cream at the Student Impact Ice Cream Social, presented by The Allstate Foundation, Wednesday afternoon immediately following the winner announcement during the live competition.

SXSW EDU 2025 Beats & BBQ Social

Close out the exciting week by toasting to new and old friends at Thursday afternoon’s Beats & BBQ Social, presented by Alpha Schools.

SXSW & SXSW EDU Crossover Day Mixer

Join SXSW attendees at the SXSW & SXSW EDU Crossover Mixer, presented by Imaginable Futures, where SXSW and SXSW EDU attendees come together for a celebration of innovation in education and creativity.

Explore More Social Events

Mentorship

One-on-One Sessions

Gain feedback from experienced professionals when you meet in purpose-driven sessions with mentors in a one-on-one conversation.

Roundtable Discussions

Access mentorship in small group discussions led by mentors through Roundtable Discussions.

Meet Ups

Connect with people who share your passions and interests at one of the many exciting meet ups.

Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday

Don’t Miss Out On SXSW EDU 2025

Register and book your hotel today to break new ground in education through compelling sessions, in-depth workshops, mentorship, film screenings, trailblazing competitions, a dynamic expo, networking opportunities, and so much more at SXSW EDU from March 3-6, 2025.

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