Accelerator winners by Jay ConlonWant to get involved with SXSW Interactive next year, but not sure how? One of the most exciting and fun ways to participate is through SXSW awards shows and competitions. Do you have a digital project from 2012 that you are particularly proud of? The SXSW Interactive Awards could be right for you. As a finalist you get a registration to attend the awards show, a chance to meet peers in the industry and do press interviews and maybe even take home the coveted prize in your category.

Lean more toward entrepreneurship and startups? Have a small business that might just be the next big thing in the technology and creative space? Then SXSW Accelerator could be right for you. Take your choice of entering either the Interactive or Music events, depending on the focus of your incredible product or service. Competition finalists will receive a complimentary registration to attend SXSW Interactive and the opportunity to showcase their bright idea in front of a panel of carefully selected industry judges. Winners will receive funds to help their businesses grow as well as press opportunities and some serious bragging rights.

With such amazing opportunities to showcase the talent our community has to offer, there's no reason not to give one of our awards events a shot. Whether competition or recognition is more your style, SXSW Interactive has an event that's right for you. But hurry, Friday, November 9, is the entry deadline and you can't participate if you don't enter. If you are more inclined to watch and learn from our awards shows and competitions, purchase your registration to attend here.