SXSW National Roadshow comes to Bristol this month

The SXSW National Roadshow will take place in partnership with BIMM University and Digital Catapult on 21 March, aiming to provide a platform to celebrate innovation and creativity that pushes boundaries in technology and the creative industries.

The Roadshow will also provide a range of thought leadership sessions designed to inspire the next generation of talent to pursue their passions and continue to make meaningful contributions in their communities and beyond.    

The Roadshow in Bristol will showcase Britain’s remarkable creativity, cultural diversity and cutting-edge tech industry, providing a platform for each city to celebrate the convergence of tech and creative voices, showcasing ‘beautiful collisions’ across sectors and disciplines and facilitating industry connections, career insights and visionary inspiration.  

Featuring thought provoking discussions, interactive networking sessions and live performances led by local creatives and business leaders, it is designed to provide local communities the opportunity to give emerging creatives and innovators the tools, knowledge and new connections needed to turn ideas into reality – while tapping into the heart of local creative and tech scenes. 

Image: SXSW 

SXSW Managing Director Randel Bryan said: “SXSW London will provide a vibrant platform to showcase dynamic global voices and industry-leading ideas. We also aim to recognise the exceptional innovations emerging in the UK through this roadshow, which will celebrate the diversity within Britain’s technology and creative sectors, while spotlighting the British creativity, talent and ideas poised to drive positive impact on both a local and global stage.” 

Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the cutting-edge developments and trends at the intersection of technology, entertainment and entrepreneurship – all while being empowered to take the next step in their professional journeys.  

David Rowe, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Music, at BIMM University, said: “BIMM University is proud to be hosting SXSWL UK National Roadshows at our vibrant campuses in Bristol, Birmingham and Manchester. We cannot wait to showcase an array of emerging talent from our creative communities and to welcome leaders from business and culture.” 

Jessica Rushworth, Chief Partnerships Officer at Digital Catapult said: “Building on Digital Catapult’s expertise in tapping into talent across the country, convening capabilities, and fostering connections with industry, SXSWL Roadshow will bridge the gap between emerging talent and real-world opportunities, fuelling deep tech innovation. Through our close collaboration with academic and industry-leading partners across the UK, we have collectively driven over £40million of investment into Createch SMEs over the last decade, reinforcing our shared commitment to providing the UK-wide expertise, facilities, mentorship, and opportunities needed to cultivate talent in the Createch space. That’s why we’re delighted to join forces with SXSW London and other partners on this inspiring initiative.” 

Joe Keiller, BIMM Bristol Campus Dean, said: “"Bristol is rooted in questioning, curiosity, and creative disruption. The drive to take creative risks, create change, and voice this loudly is in our veins. As such, we are delighted to welcome SXSW London to our city. 

“This is a fantastic moment for our students, community, and industry partners to come together for debate and to share creativity." 

Key Highlights of the SXSW National Roadshow include: 

• Connect with industry pros: Meet innovators, musicians, filmmakers, entrepreneurs and creative pioneers during our day sessions.  
• Live Sessions:  Enjoy live performances from emerging local artists during evening sessions.  
• Networking with purpose: Build the relationships to propel careers forward.