Czech Republic outline

CZECH HOUSE

SXSW 2026

Innovation • Networking • Culture

March 12–13, 2026
Augustine Cocktail Bar, 86 Rainey St, Austin, TX
50+
Startups
2
Days
20+
Events
About the Event

Where Czech Innovation Meets Global Opportunity

Czech House at SXSW 2026 continues the successful tradition established in 2025. As the official platform for Czech innovation at one of the world's most influential festivals, we bring together startups, investors, and visionaries from around the globe.

Innovation Hub

Showcasing Czech startups and technology companies at the forefront of AI, robotics, and digital innovation.

Networking

Connect with international investors, partners, and industry leaders in an exclusive setting.

Culture & Music

Experience Czech culture through live music performances and creative showcases.

Panel Discussions

Engage in thought-provoking panels featuring industry experts, visionaries, and entrepreneurs.

About Czech House

Czech House is the Czech Republic's official national pavilion at SXSW—a two-day celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and culture in the heart of Austin. From groundbreaking startup pitches and expert-led panels on AI, defence tech, and transatlantic expansion, to evening performances showcasing the best of Czech music, we bring together 50+ startups, investors, government leaders, and creatives under one roof. Whether you're here to discover the next big thing, forge international partnerships, or simply experience Czech culture at its finest—welcome to Czech House.

Czech Pavilion at SXSW International Innovations Expo - Booth 322

Step beyond Czech House and explore the Czech Pavilion at the official SXSW Expo. In partnership with PRUSA RESEARCH, we're bringing hands-on demonstrations of cutting-edge Czech technologies—from world-renowned 3D printing innovations to breakthrough startups ready to reshape industries. Find us at Booth 322 and experience Czech innovation up close.

Event Schedule

Two Days of Innovation

Packed program featuring panels, keynotes, startup pitches, and cultural events.

08:00

Run Czech(ed) ✓

Morning Run

Presented by CzechTourism, Prague International Marathon and STRV

5k run through Austin led by former Czech National Team athlete Eva Krchova followed by after-run breakfast and casual chat. We will start and finish the run at the Czech house.

12:00

House Opening

Official opening of Czech House at SXSW 2026 with welcome remarks from Czech delegation leadership.

12:30 – 13:15

Masterclass: Tech Meets Tradition

Masterclass

Learn more about how the Czech Republic, and its regions combine technology and tradition for global competitiveness.

13:45 – 14:30

Czech Companies in the U.S.: Do’s & Don’ts

Panel

What does it really take to succeed in the American market? Hear directly from founders and executives on navigating expansion, avoiding pitfalls, and building transatlantic momentum.

14:45 – 16:15

Czech Innovation in Defence

Explore how established industry, emerging deep-tech, and strategic investment are shaping the next generation of defence technologies. From advanced propulsion systems to AI-powered digital twins, multispectral camouflage materials, and venture-backed innovation pathways, the panel highlights scalable dual-use solutions strengthening transatlantic security and resilience.

Czech Night @ SXSW 2026

Experience a vibrant evening celebrating Czech innovation, entrepreneurship,
and culture as Czech House returns to SXSW in 2026!

Register
17:00 – 17:30

Official Opening of Czech House 2026

Kick off the evening with the official opening of Czech House @ SXSW 2026, featuring welcome remarks from Karel Havlíček (Minister of Industry and Trade) and Miloslav Stašek (Ambassador of the Czech Republic to the United States)

17:30 – 18:30

Czech Innovators Pitch

Pitch Event

Eight ambitious Czech companies will take the stage to present their cutting-edge solutions, global ambitions, and breakthrough ideas in front of a panel of Investors.

18:30 – 20:00

Networking Reception

Networking

Connect with founders, investors, creatives, and transatlantic partners during our networking block. Expect lively conversations, new connections, and Czech-inspired refreshments that set the perfect backdrop for collaboration.

20:00 – 23:00

Pop Night

Music

As the evening unfolds, immerse yourself in a musical journey featuring artists pushing the boundaries of Czech and international sound.

Made Possible By

Organizers

Ministry of Industry and Trade
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic
Ministry of Regional Development
CzechInvest
CzechTourism
CzechTrade

Partners

South Moravian Region
JIC
Zlín Region
Future by ZRIA
TIC
ICUK - Innovation Centre of the Ústí Region
Central Bohemia
SIC - Central Bohemian Innovation Center
Prusa Research
PBS Aerospace
Draslovka
American Friends of the Czech Republic
Livesport