David Carr Prize Application

David Carr was a journalist, author, and longtime speaker at SXSW before his passing in 2015. In 2016, we created the David Carr Prize for Emerging Writers to honor Carr and his breadth of work.

We invite all high school, undergraduate, and graduate students (PhD & Masters included) to honor David Carr’s interest in the convergence of new media, technology, and culture by entering an essay or short story of 1,500 words or less (minimum 500 words) in the SXSW David Carr Prize Essay competition. Essay content can be creative writing or factual, citing sources as necessary.

Five finalists will be selected by the SXSW Selection Committee. Each finalist will receive one Platinum Badge ($1,650 value) to attend SXSW 2020. One winner will be awarded the David Carr Prize at the Innovation Awards during SXSW and will have an opportunity to give a short speech upon acceptance.

Deadline to enter is 11:59 PM PT December 6, 2019. Students must be currently enrolled or have graduated within seven months of the deadline. Original and unpublished entries will be reviewed by our David Carr Prize Advisory Board.

Please email davidcarrprize@sxsw.com with any questions.