SXSW London To Showcase ‘British creativity’ and ‘local innovation’ with launch of UK Roadshow This Spring

27 February 2025 - Press release

As part of its commitment to connecting the next generation of innovators and creatives, SXSW London, the premier event for the convergence of tech, music, film & TV, arts, and innovation is launching a Roadshow in partnership with BIMM University and Digital Catapult. Free events will celebrate local innovation and creativity in Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Gateshead and Belfast, in the lead up to the inaugural European edition of SXSW London in June 2-7, 2025.

This series of events 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. Each event will inspire emerging talent to explore career opportunities, hone their skills and build professional networks.

Dates for the roadshow are as follows:

• Bristol – Friday, 21 March 2025 – BIMM Bristol, St James House, Moon St, St Paul's, Bristol BS2 8QY

• Gateshead – Thursday, 3 April 2025 – Advanced Media Production PROTO, Abbott's Hill, Baltic Business Quarter, Gateshead NE8 3DF

• Manchester – Wednesday, 9 April 2025 

• Day Conferencing - Performers College, Manchester -The Dancehouse, 10 Oxford Rd, Manchester M1 5QA

• Live Showcases -Night & Day Café - 26 Oldham St Manchester M1 1JN

• Birmingham –Thursday, 24 April 2025 

• Day Conferencing – BIMM Birmingham, Little Ann St, Deritend, Birmingham B5 5SR

• Live Showcases – The Night Owl 17-18 Lower Trinity St, Deritend, Birmingham B9 4A

• Belfast – Coming soon in May 2025. 

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. Participants will be able to:

• Connect with industry pros: Meet innovators, musicians, filmmakers, entrepreneurs and creative pioneers in the day 

• Live Sessions:  Enjoy live performances from emerging local artists in the evening 

• Networking with purpose: Build relationships to propel careers forward.

SXSW London 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.”

David Rowe, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Music, at BIMM University said “BIMM University is proud to be hosting SXSWL UK 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.”

Tickets are available for those aged 18+ with an interest in music, creativity, tech, digital innovation and entrepreneurship. Spaces are limited and can be claimed here.

For more information please visit: https://www.sxswlondon.com/