In March, Invest and Trade Western Australia led 11 of WA’s leading technology companies to Austin, Texas, to take part in SXSW 2025, one of the world’s most prominent events for technology, innovation and creative industries.  

Held over nine days, South by Southwest (SXSW) brings together global leaders in tech, film, music and business. With thousands of investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in attendance, it was the perfect platform to showcase Western Australia’s capabilities to a global audience.  

WA delegates used the opportunity to connect with key industry stakeholders, explore new market opportunities and promote the State’s strengths in critical technologies on a global stage. 

Global Growth Accelerator Program 

This visit was part of the Global Growth Accelerator Program (GGAP) — an initiative designed to accelerate the global expansion of WA businesses in critical technology, energy, and advanced industries.  

Program components included: 

• Virtual capability building sessions on U.S. market entry, funding pathways, and government procurement 

• One-on-one mentoring with U.S. industry experts to refine their go-to-market strategies 

• In-market immersion experience in Austin, Texas, including SXSW 2025 

Key highlights from the in-market program 

While in Austin, delegates took part in tailored sessions and site visits, gaining first-hand insight into the U.S. innovation landscape. 

Some of the visits included: 

• Defense Innovation Unit – a U.S. Department of Defense organisation focused on adopting commercial and dual-use technology 

• Firefly Aerospace – the first commercial company to successfully land on the moon 

• ICON Builds – specialists in 3D-printed home construction 

• Atlassian’s Austin campus – a showcase of global growth from an Australian-based software company 

Delegates also participated in curated sessions covering topics such as ‘The Great Funding Debate’, dual-use innovation under AUKUS, and investment considerations for entering the U.S. market. 

Building Global Connections 

By fostering strong international relationships and showcasing WA’s strengths in dual-use innovation, GGAP supports the State’s broader vision of positioning WA as a global hub for defence, security and critical technology.