Early stage founders, this is your moment!
Are you ready to test your startup on the ultimate global stage? The Startup Battlefield is calling. Nominations for TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 200the world’s most iconic startup pitch competition, is officially open.
Enter the main stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 and go face-to-face in front of world-class VC judges and the entire TechCrunch audience. This is where unblocked companies are forged. Compete for $100,000 in equity-free funding, gain global exposure, and get real, unfiltered feedback from the investors who are shaping the future of tech.
Startup Battlefield alumni include; Dropbox, Discord, Fitbit, Trello and CloudFlare — over 1,700 startups that were once right where you are now.
The next breakout doesn’t happen by accident. Suggest now.
Competition is fierce – get in early
Thousands of startups apply each year, and this year’s field will be even more competitive. TechCrunch reviews every nomination, but founders who get in early give themselves a strategic advantage. If you are serious about winning, don’t wait to join the race.
Startup Battlefield 200 perks
- Free exhibitor table for all three days of Disrupt
- 4 free Disrupt cards
- Launch name and registration in the Disrupt event app
- Press list access and lead generation opportunities
- Access to exclusive founder masterclasses
- The chance to play live on the Disrupt Stage
- Direct feedback from top, world-renowned VCs
- A $100,000 cash prize plan with no shares
Explore the full list of benefits.
Techcrunch event
Boston, MA
|
June 23, 2026
What you need to enter the arena
We’re looking for bold, early-stage founders with an MVP and a vision that challenges the status quo. If you’re bootstrapped, pre-seed or seed-funded, this battleground was created for you. Series A startups in capital-intensive industries can also qualify.
Start the battle today
Nominations close in mid-June, but champions aren’t waiting for the final call. Prepare early. Apply early. Enter the Startup Battlefield 200 and fight for your place on the biggest stage of technology.
