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Every March, thousands of creatives, entrepreneurs and curious minds head to Austin for SXSW to explore what’s next in culture, tech and innovation. But long before the festival kicks off, the real opportunity begins with the PanelPicker.
The submission process is competitive, but also a chance to shape the agenda and spotlight ideas that deserve a platform. At Propeller, we’ve worked with clients to craft successful proposals and navigate the process from start to finish. These are the core principles we return to every time.
Make it future-facing
SXSW is all about what comes next. Proposals that anticipate emerging ideas, cultural shifts or industry challenges are far more likely to capture attention. Think ahead. What conversations will people be having in twelve months’ time? This is your chance to lead them.
Go deep on the detail
SXSW audiences want depth. The most effective submissions focus on a specific angle rather than trying to cover too much ground. Keep your proposal narrow, but rich in insight. When writing your three takeaways, make each one a concrete piece of value the audience will walk away with.
Choose a title that tells, not teases
Avoid clever titles that need extra explanation. Keep it simple, clear and easy to understand without reading the full description. The best titles speak directly to the content of the session and let the topic shine on its own.
Match your message to the format
There are multiple session types to choose from, including panels, presentations, workshops and meet-ups. Each has different rules around time, speaker numbers and audience interaction. Select the one that suits your idea and stick to the guidelines. For panels, a maximum of four speakers includes the moderator.
Use a neutral moderator
This is strongly recommended by SXSW and can make a big difference to how your session lands. A moderator keeps things balanced, ensures all voices are heard and helps the conversation stay focused on the topic at hand.
Include a video
All proposals require at least one supporting resource. A short video filmed on your phone is completely fine. The goal is to give reviewers a feel for the tone of your session and your ability to engage an audience. Think of it as your elevator pitch.
Check everything before you submit
Once your proposal is submitted, you can’t make changes. Proofread carefully. Read it aloud. Ask someone outside your field if it makes sense. A well-structured and error-free proposal reflects positively on your overall professionalism.
Stick to the timeline
Submissions for SXSW 2026 are open from 24 June to 27 July 2025. Community voting runs from 5 to 24 August. Aim to submit early so you have time to gather feedback and refine your proposal before the deadline.
Final thought
SXSW is a place for bold thinking, cultural relevance and real debate. The PanelPicker is your opportunity to share your perspective with one of the most engaged and curious communities around. If you’re developing a proposal and want support with messaging, structure or storytelling, the Propeller team is here to help.