SLOVAK PRO HOUSE
@ SXSW

Slovak PRO House @ SXSW: A Catalyst for Innovation and Collaboration

The Slovak PRO House at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in 2024 marked a significant milestone for Slovak innovation on the global stage. The initiative, driven by the Slovak PRO organization, underscored the vibrant, creative, and technological capabilities that Slovakia offers to the world.

SXSW, a premier event celebrated for its fusion of technology, creativity, and business, annually attracts nearly 400,000 attendees from across the globe to Austin, Texas. The 2024 edition witnessed an unprecedented representation of Slovak talent.

The Launch of Slovak PRO House @ SXSW

A novel idea transformed into reality; the Slovak PRO House became the first of its kind at SXSW 2024. Designed as a networking hub, it offered Slovak companies a unique platform to present their innovations to a curated audience. This initiative not only elevated Slovakia's presence among international peers but also functioned as an informal embassy, showcasing Slovakia's rich potential in technology and creativity.

Why SXSW Appeals to Slovak Companies

SXSW is renowned for its focus on the technology, business, and entertainment industries, making it an ideal locale for startups and established firms alike to explore new opportunities. Slovak companies, including Kreativ Gang, CloseRocket, and Touch4IT, seized the chance to engage with global business icons and potential partners, highlighting the event's significance for networking and expansion. Leaders of Touch4IT have lauded their participation at the Slovak PRO House during SXSW 2024 as one of their most fruitful business trips, emphasizing the unparalleled opportunities for networking. The presence of Slovak firms at niche events organized by Capitol Factory and Q Branch, facilitated by Slovak PRO, provided invaluable insights and contacts within the startup ecosystem.

Participating Companies and Their Achievements

The Slovak PRO House hosted a diverse group of companies, including Touch4IT, Kreativ Gang, CloseRocket, Aditbe, Zepelin, Zooza, Sparring, and Kiuub. These firms praised the initiative for its role in facilitating meaningful interactions with successful Slovaks in the USA and for the chance to gain international visibility. Highlights included engagements with dignitaries like Martin Valko, Honorary Consul of Slovakia in Texas, and Martin Viecha, VP of Investor Relations at Tesla, who even helped organize a special tour of Tesla's Gigafactory in Texas.

Companies appreciated the cultural enrichment and networking opportunities. Marek Križka, a representative of the international law firm Sparring, which primarily serves startups, highlighted numerous conversations with owners and representatives of successful American companies. A standout moment for him was a positive interaction from Dan Goldin, the longest-serving former NASA Administrator, when discussing cooperation between the U.S. military and entrepreneurs from the CEE region.

Michal Dodok from Zooza, which offers both group and personal growth courses, aimed to enter the American market through SXSW, a goal achieved thanks to numerous contacts provided by Slovak PRO.

Alexander Horváth from the Slovak company Zepelin, based in Trenčín and a global leader in inflatable tents and shelters, was delighted to meet Conan O'Brien, who has one of the most successful talk show in the USA. Zepelin established contacts with companies such as IBM, Canon, Honda, Ricoh, and Paramount.

Looking Forward: Slovak PRO House at SXSW 2025

With an eye on the future, Slovak PRO is already planning for SXSW 2025, aiming to further elevate Slovakia's innovative spirit on the world stage. The success of the Slovak PRO House in 2024 has laid a solid foundation for even greater achievements in the years to come.

About Slovak PRO

Slovak PRO, a non-profit organization, has been connecting Slovak professionals in the USA with their homeland since 2001, fostering professional development, education, and cultural exchange. With over 2500 members, it plays a crucial role in strengthening the Slovak professional community globally.