EU-Texas Startup Gateway at South by Southwest 2026

The European American Chamber of Commerce Texas presents the EU-Texas Startup Gateway at South by Southwest 2026: A virtual accelerator, VC connector, and on-site pitching contest for EU startups on their way to U.S. markets

EU-Texas Startup Gateway @ SXSW 2026 is a program tailored for European startups and scale-ups to prepare for U.S. market entry with ongoing feedback from VCs and culminating in the opportunity to pitch at the world’s leading innovation festival, South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas.

Through an 8-week virtual accelerator, companies receive comprehensive feedback on their business strategy from VCs, angel investors and industry leaders, pitch training specific to the U.S., and skills on doing business in Texas

Timeline

• Application, Selection, & Onboarding: Nov-Dec 2025
• 8-week Virtual Accelerator & Training: Jan-Mar 2026
• SXSW On-Site Pitches & Networking: Mar 7-15, 2026
• Follow-up Investor Introductions: Apr 2026

What You Will Get

🚀 Enter the U.S. market with structured training and expert mentorship on your idea and business model

🌎 Pitching opportunity in front of U.S. investors at EU Tech House at one of the world’s top innovation events

🤝 Investor and partner access through an online platform and curated introductions and events

🇺🇸 Knowledge on doing business in Texas and market entry strategy for your startup’s U.S. debut

Who Should Apply

• European startups and scale-ups in:
  • Defense/Dual-Use Technologies
  • Space-Tech
  • Tech and Digital Innovation
  • Energy Security and ClimateTech
  • Health and Biotech
  • Smart Manufacturing
• Want more details?
  • Contact us at info@eacctx.com