Nashville, TN — Back for its triumphant second year, acclaimed fan-favorite activation Tennessee House is bringing innovation, technology, and culture to Austin, Texas for the world-renowned SXSW conference.
Tennessee House is produced and hosted by Launch Tennessee, a 501c3 nonprofit that supports startups across the state.’
The three-day activation takes over Electric Shuffle less than two blocks from the Austin Convention Center and offers a robust lineup of programming, from staged panels and discussions with executives from major Tennessee-based companies, including FedEx, ALSAC/St. Jude, and EPB, plus insight from Oracle leadership on their upcoming world headquarters in Nashville and xAI on the speedy deal to build their supercomputer in Memphis.
The schedule boasts a UT-Off, celebrating the friendly rivalry between the Volunteers and the Longhorns, where attendees are encouraged to wear orange to show their support, as well as discussions of mobility logistics, quantum computing, and emerging technology being developed at Vanderbilt University to support military service members and veterans.
Guests are also invited to unforgettable programs, including a tribute to Chattanooga’s iconic MoonPie snack with an advance preview of a new flavor before it’s available for purchase on grocery shelves, an Elvis lookalike contest pegged to “The King”’s 90th birthday this year, a late-night line dancing class to mark the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary year, and the return of popular Nashville entertainment experience, Hip Hop Karaoke.
Additionally, Launch Tennessee is bringing founders from the Volunteer State to showcase their work. From consumer packaged goods company Daily Crunch to logistics tech company Shappi, Tennessee companies will be on display all throughout the weekend. Several Tennessee distilleries from across the state will be offering special tastings of their spirits and custom cocktails, including Alma Del Jaguar Tequila, Happenstance Whiskey, Leiper’s Fork Distillery, Ole Smoky Distillery, Peg Leg Porker Spirits, and Sugarlands Distillery.
“I couldn’t be more excited to return to Austin with our Tennessee House activation for a second year,” Launch Tennessee CEO Lindsey Cox said. “It’s a thrill to show off all that the state has going on right now, including pioneering work in AI, quantum computing, and mobility logistics, as well as to spotlight some of the most exciting and dynamic startups. And with so much on the programming schedule, it’s no surprise our registration numbers are already through the roof. I also want to thank all of our exceptional partners helping to power and produce the Tennessee House and can’t wait to see everyone in Texas!”
There’s still time to register to attend Tennessee House. SXSW badge holders will be given priority entry, and non badge holders can get in by registering for the events. Additionally, guests can apply to gain access to an opening VIP and partner happy hour on March 7 with the theme, “I’m So Tennessee…,” by finishing that brag statement.
Leaders from Tennessee cities Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga came together to make the House a reality.
Thanks to our partners: Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce; The Company Lab; Greater Memphis Chamber; Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce; Nashville Innovation Alliance; Tennessee Valley Authority; the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.
What: Tennessee House
When: March 7-9
Where: Austin’s Electric Shuffle, 91 Red River St.
Why: To celebrate Tennessee innovation, tech and culture
More info: Free food and drinks available
Website: TN.House
Friday, March 7: Knox Night
- VIP & Partner Happy Hour: “I’m so Tennessee…”
- First Annual, Long-awaited UT-Off
- Name That Raccoon election
Saturday, March 8: Nooga in the Morning
- Momentum in Mobility discussion, hosted by Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly
- Chatt and Chill, feat. a tribute to the iconic MoonPie snack
- Quantifying Quantum panel, exploring a quantum startup’s journey to acquisition
- Startup Showcase, spotlighting Chattanooga-based companies
Saturday, March 8: Nash at Night
- Oracle Sees the Future in Music City
- Welcome to Nashville: Where Creative Brands Thrive panel, featuring companies across healthcare, spirits, apparel, and CPG
- Spotlight on Vanderbilt’s Latest Tech
- Hip Hop Karaoke II: The Return
- Late-night Line Dancing, marking the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary
Sunday, March 9: 901 Day
- Soulful Brunch
- Greetings from the Digital Delta with leadership from FedEx and ALSAC/St. Jude
- xAI’s Rapid Arrival in Memphis, hosted by Greater Memphis Chamber President & CEO Ted Townsend
- 901 Day Startup Pitch, featuring Memphis-based companies
- Elvis’ 90th Birthday Lookalike Contest
- GloRilla Glowstick Dance Party
