Founders, the battlefield is still open, but not for much longer.
After massive demand from founders around the world, TechCrunch has expanded it Startup Battlefield 200 application deadline until June 8. If you thought you missed your chance to play live on the Disrupt Stage this October at San Francisco’s Moscone West, this is your last chance to enter one of tech’s most competitive startup arenas.
Nominate a company that stands out or submit your application before the deadline.
What is Startup Battlefield 200?
The Startup Battlefield 200 is where ambitious early-stage startups go from unknown to impossible to ignore. Selected founders will take the spotlight at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, pitching live in front of elite investors, influential media and the global startup ecosystem. A startup will walk away with $100,000 in equity-free funding, but each company selected gains visibility that can reshape its trajectory.
More than 1,700 startups have participated in Startup Battlefield over the years. Together, they have raised more than $32 billion and spawned more than 250 exits, including acquisitions by the likes of Microsoft, Google, Salesforce, Uber and Amazon.
This is the same competition that helped launch companies like Dropbox, Discord, Mint, Fitbit, and Trello. More than 1,500 startups have competed in the Startup Battlefield, and many have gone on to become category-defining businesses.
Why founders still struggle to apply
Contest for Startup Battlefield 200 has intensified as founders look for ways to stand out in a crowded fundraising environment. The expansion gives more startups a chance to enter, but expectations are higher than ever.
The selected startups receive:
- A free exhibitor table for all three days of Disrupt.
- Four free Disrupt cards.
- Branding and visibility within the Disrupt event app.
- Press exposure and lead generation opportunities.
- Access to masterclass for founders only.
- The chance to play live on the Disrupt Stage.
- Direct feedback from leading venture capitalists.
- A chance to win $100,000 in equity-free funding.
Who should apply?
TechCrunch is looking for bold early-stage startups with a working MVP and a vision capable of disrupting an industry. Bootstrapped, pre-seed and seed-stage startups are encouraged to apply. Selected Series A startups in capital intensive sectors may also qualify.
If you’re building something class-changing, this is your chance to prove it on one of the biggest stages in technology.
The clock is still ticking
The deadline extension is due to overwhelming demand, but the battlefield won’t stay open forever. Thousands of startups compete for a limited number of spots, and each application is closely reviewed by the TechCrunch team.
This is your chance to get in front of investors, customers, media and future partners, all in one place. Nominate or apply before June 8 and fight for your place among the next generation of startups.
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