SXSW Interactive brings together many diverse communities – and the intermixing of these diverse communities makes the event all the more compelling. For 2013, we are excited to host more than 50 panels and presentations related to Blacks in Technology (BIT) at SXSW. The bulk of this BIT programming will occur on the 18th Floor of the Hilton Garden Inn (500 North IH-35), just east of the Austin Convention Center. Click here for a complete list of this BIT programming at the 2013 SXSW Interactive Festival.

While BIT programming at the Hilton Garden Inn requires a SXSW Interactive, Gold or Platinum badge for entry, the kick-off party at 6:00 pm on Friday, March 8 is FREE and open to the public. This kick-off party occurs at the Carver Museum & History Center (1165 Angelina Street, 78702). Free shuttle buses will help take registrants from the Austin Convention Center to the Carver for this event. In addition to complimentary food and drink, the kick-off party will also feature the Top 10 Black Innovators of 2012 Awards. Again, you do NOT need a badge to attend the Blacks in Technology Kick-Off event on Friday evening, March 8 at the Carver – this event is free free free.

These Top 10 Black Innovators will also be honored as part of the SXSW Interactive Awards ceremony on Tuesday evening, March 12 at Austin Hilton Downtown.