Startup Battlefield 200 functions are open, however just for three extra weeks. Apply by Could 27 to your shot at VC entry, international visibility, TechCrunch protection, $100K equity-free, and extra alternatives for main scaling influence.
Pre-Collection A founders — and anybody who is aware of a startup value backing — that is your reminder: the deadline is approaching quick, and the strongest contenders are already getting into the world. In case your startup has been nominated, don’t wait. Complete your application now before the window closes.
Know a startup that deserves to step into the highlight? Nominate them now to provide them time to finish the applying by the deadline.
World visibility that’ll launch your startup
This isn’t simply one other pitch competitors. Startup Battlefield 200 places you on the primary stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 in entrance of 10,000+ attendees, top-tier traders, media, and the worldwide TechCrunch viewers. You might be competing dwell, getting direct VC suggestions, and proving your organization belongs among the many subsequent breakout startups.
Ready till the final minute is the quickest method to lose your edge. Early candidates have extra time to arrange, extra alternatives to face out to the TechCrunch editorial group, and a stronger likelihood to make an influence earlier than the competitors intensifies. Nominate your startup, then finish the job and apply.
Who ought to apply?
We’re in search of formidable early-stage startups constructing revolutionary, doubtlessly category-defining merchandise. Functions are open globally throughout each trade. Most chosen firms are pre-Collection A, although choose Collection A startups could qualify case by case. A practical MVP and clear product demo are required. Most significantly, we’re in search of founders constructing with imaginative and prescient, execution, and actual market influence.
This is similar launchpad the place companies like Dropbox, Discord, Fitbit, Trello, and Mint gained early momentum. Hundreds apply yearly. Solely 200 are chosen. Simply 20 finalists pitch dwell on the Disrupt Stage. One startup takes the crown.
Techcrunch occasion
San Francisco, CA
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October 13-15, 2026
What chosen startups obtain
Chosen startups obtain one of many highest ROI alternatives out there to early-stage founders. It’s free to use, and the potential return — from investor publicity to media protection and buyer progress — can create actual scaling influence.
- World publicity throughout TechCrunch’s viewers
- Free exhibit desk for all 3 days
- 4 all-access Disrupt passes
- Featured startup profile within the occasion app
- Press checklist entry and lead era alternatives
- Unique founder masterclasses
- An opportunity to pitch dwell on the Disrupt Stage
- Direct suggestions from high VCs
- A shot at $100,000 in equity-free funding
Apply earlier than Could 27
Functions shut Could 27. The founders who break via will not be ready till the ultimate hour — they’re already making their transfer.
In case you are constructing one thing category-defining, or know a founder who’s, now could be the time to step ahead. Nominate your startup — or one which deserves the highlight — and complete your application earlier than the deadline runs out.
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