SXSW Cuts Ties with Weaponry Sponsors for 2025 Event

After careful consideration, we are revising our sponsorship model. As a result, the US Army, and companies who engage in weapons manufacturing, will not be sponsors of SXSW 2025.

• Statement from SXSW

South by Southwest festival organizers have announced they will no longer accept sponsorship from weapons manufacturers or the U.S. Army, following protests and boycotts from attendees and artists at the 2024 event.

2024 Artist-Led Boycotts

Ella Williams, Squirrel Flower:

I have decided to pull out of my official SXSW showcases in protest of SXSW’s ties to the defense industry and in support of the Palestinian people... SXSW is platforming defense contractors including Raytheon subsidiaries as well as the US Army, a main sponsor.

• Instagram post

Eliza McLamb:

I will never put my name on or perform my labor for an event in service of the US war machine, and especially not now as they continue to fuel the ongoing violence against Palestinians. Blood money has no place in music.

• X post

SXSW Responds to Criticism

While the festival has not disclosed the value of these sponsorships, their decision to cut ties is a significant response to this year's protests, with over 80 artists and speakers boycotting.