The Czech delegation, led by the Minister of Industry and Trade Lukáš Vlček, arrived at one of the most important technology conferences in the world - SXSW 2025, which took place in the first half of March 2025. The joint participation of Czech companies at this prestigious festival is organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, the CzechTrade agency, the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington, DC, CzechTourism USA, the CzechInvest foreign offices in San Francisco and New York, and other partners.
Within the SXSW Tech Expo, the Czech Republic is represented in the Global section, where selected Czech companies and startups present their innovative products and services. Among them are Kapnetix and GetMoments from Technological Incubation, a project of the CzechInvest agency, and Webout, a finalist of the Creative Business Cup 2025 national final, which is organized by CzechInvest. Kapnetix did not exhibit at the Expo. Instead, Kapnetix and GetMoments were part of a pitch event organized at Czech House, where Webout also had a product demonstration for visitors.
Another important milestone of the Czech participation is the first official Czech House at SXSW, which has become a dynamic meeting point for innovators, investors, and experts from various fields. Visitors can look forward to panel discussions, thematic workshops, and networking events that will connect Czech innovators with international investors, experts, and entrepreneurs.
"The participation of Czech startups at SXSW is an important step for their expansion into global markets. Thanks to this platform, they can make key contacts, get inspiration from world leaders, and present their innovations to investors and strategic partners. CzechInvest helps startups to gain not only important contacts but also the practical know-how needed for international expansion," says Jan Michal, CEO of CzechInvest.
"We want to show that the Czech Republic is a country of innovation, technology, and creativity. Our companies have a lot to offer in the fields of artificial intelligence, blockchain, cybersecurity, gaming industry, and sustainable technologies," adds Anna Hight, Director of the foreign office in San Francisco.
SXSW in Austin, Texas is one of the most important global events focused on technology, business, and creative industries. Thousands of innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs head there each year in search of new opportunities, inspiration, and strategic partnerships. It is a unique opportunity for Czech companies and startups to introduce themselves on the global stage, gain investment opportunities, and establish international business contacts.
The Czech delegation to SXSW 2025 represents another step toward strengthening international cooperation and raising awareness of the Czech innovation ecosystem.