UKTI Mission to SXSW 2012: Application Process and Next Steps
Are you thinking of applying for the UKTI Trade Mission to SXSW, but not really sure where to start? Wondering how long the application process takes and how it's assessed?
When and how should you book hotels? Do you need to buy a SXSW badge? So many questions, so to make things a little easier we have outlined some simple steps that we hope will answer all of your questions.
We have already had a strong group of application for the UKTI Trade Mission to SXSW, but you do still have time to apply. Applications close Friday 25th November, so start applying today.
The Application Form
First things first, lets tackle the application form.
Where can I find it?
The application form can be found online here:
// Apply for UKTI Mission to SXSW Interactive 2012
How long does it take to fill in and what questions are asked?
The application form takes no longer than 20 minutes to fill in, the questions are fairly simple and delve into the details of your company. You can download a PDF version to review the questions here.
Who does the assessment?
Once we receive an application for the mission, it'll be sent to an advisory board consisting of members of UKTI bodies in London and Houston, as well as our very own Sam Michel, a expert in the digital industry. The assessors check that you cover the criteria that the mission requires and make sure that you will be able to get the most out of the mission.
How long does the whole application process take?
Once we have your completed application, we'll let you know we've received it. It will take about 2 working days for your application to be processed and assessed, once this has been done, you will receive an email confirming whether you have been accepted for the mission.
Confirming Your Place
If you are accepted for the UKTI Trade Mission to SXSW 2012, what happens next? Let us explain...
OMIS Costs
Your place on the trip is not secure until your OMIS payment has been recived. The OMIS fee for the trip is £666 (including VAT). We will send you a personal link to pay for this online.
SXSW Badge Costs
As a mission company, you will be able to buy a discounted SXSW Badge. The price of this will be included in your OMIS payment link and can be again, be paid on line. If you have already purchased a SXSW badge, this is fine you just need to let us know.
The SXSW Booking System
The SXSW booking system is abit of a confusing beast. You need your SXSW badge code to register your badge online, we will give you this once we have received payment. To register your SXSW badge you need to visit the official SXSW webpage.
Flights and Hotels
Unless you are lucky enough to live in Austin, you will need to book flights and accommodation for the festival.
Flights
Flights can be arranged individually, or if you want some hassle free planning you can book them through our travel partner who are offering special fares for Mission companies attending SXSW.
Once your place has been comfirmed we will send you the contact details for our travel partner. Capacity on routes to the US has reduced since the credit crunch, so the earlier you’re able to book, the better.
Hotels & Accommodation
Once you have registered your SXSW badge, you will be able to book your hotel through the SXSW Housing Desk. The hotels close to the convention centre do get booked up very quickly but there are still plenty of hotels left that are just a little further out of the city.
On the SXSW housing website, you will be able to see a list of hotels that are still available along with hotel photos and quality, the distance from the convention centre and whether the hotel is on the R&R shuttle route.
If you don’t fancy a hotel, there are other options. There are many houses up for rent during SXSW, from single rooms to huge group houses. Check out some of the below sites for inspiration.
If you have any questions drop francesca
chinwag [dot] com (us a line). You can also check out the UKTI Trade Mission page where you will find some helpful FAQ.
Good luck and see you in Texas!
// Apply for UKTI Mission to SXSW Interactive 2012
Photo (cc) gtmcknight
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| ukti_mission_to_sxsw12_application_form.pdf | 251.48 KB |
31 October 2011 by Francesca Heath
Having been at @Chinwag for over 2 years my role has changed and developed as have I. I look after all UK and International Events within Chinwag as well as keep the team ticking over nicely. You can catch my random comments on my Twitter @francescaheath
Having been at @Chinwag for over 2 years my role has changed and developed as have I. I look after all UK and International Events within Chinwag as well as keep the team ticking over nicely. You can catch my random comments on my Twitter @francescaheath
