SXSW swag is something everyone wants to keep for themselves, usually filled with products, promotions and much more swag we don't necessarily need. SWAG or 'Stuff We All Get' is taking a bit of a turn. Companies usually take swag for attending events. Swag can include socks, hats, t-shirts and everything in between.
One tech company at SXSW has decided to change the rules and is offering the swag to the homeless. A Palo Alto company called Medallia has partnered up with the Austin-based Foundation for the Homeless to collect the swag given out at SXSW 2014 from conference attendees. They plan to take the donations and give them to Austin's homeless.
So far, it has collected 15 pounds of clothes on the first day. Its team stands outside the hectic Austin Convention Centre and collect. It is great activism and putting good use to unnecessary items.
Swag Donation Startup Giveaways
These Start-Ups are Donating Their SXSW Swag to the Homeless
Trend Themes
1. Swag Donations - Tech companies are using excess swag from events to donate to the homeless, creating an opportunity for more widespread swag donation programs.
2. Social Activism at Events - More companies are partnering with charitable organizations to make a difference at events, creating an opportunity for more event-based social activism.
3. Waste Reduction at Events - By repurposing excess swag, companies are contributing to waste reduction at events, creating an opportunity for more sustainable practices at conferences.
Industry Implications
1. Events - This trend disrupts the events industry and could lead to more partnerships with non-profit organizations and waste reduction efforts.
2. Tech - As tech startups lead the way in swag donation efforts, this could become a defining trait of socially conscious tech companies.
3. Social Impact - This trend could shape the future of corporate social responsibility, with more companies prioritizing social impact and charitable initiatives.