We’re out of this world excited to announce that we’ve added a dedicated Space Stage to TechCrunch Disrupt 2024. It joins Fintech, SaaS and AI as other industry-focused stages — all under one big roof.
And we’re excited to share that this year we’ll be hosting “The Space Challenge, powered by Aerospace” pitch competition as part of the event. More details on how to submit your space launch coming soon!
The Space Stage agenda at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024
As the space industry accelerates, new opportunities multiply for founders, investors and customers. Not only are the once astronomical costs of doing business in orbit reduced, but so are the technical barriers to entry.
More stakeholders in space create a vibrant, diverse and highly competitive environment that cuts across private and public markets — not to mention the rapidly growing dual-use segment. Discover the challenges and opportunities that lie in orbit on Disrupt’s Space Stage, where you’ll hear from leaders across the industry.
Check out the preliminary agenda below and keep checking back for updates — lots more to come!
Startups in Dual Use
with John Gedmark (Astranis), Melissa Quinn (Slingshot Aerospace) and Even Rogers (True Anomaly)
Government and defense increasingly rely on commercial services, but startups face a real challenge entering this highly regulated and formal side of the industry. How can new, lean companies compete for contracts and attention with top and more established organizations — and how can investors help?
Bridgit Mendler on the transition from Disney Star to startup founder
with Bridgit Mendler (Northwood Space)
Former Disney Channel star Bridgit Mendler wants to transform one of the least sexy parts of the space industry: ground stations. In this fireside, we’ll learn more about how Northwood Space will build a data highway between Earth and orbit.
The future of launch
with Kelly Hennig (Stoke Space) and speakers to be announced
Launch has already reinvented itself over the past decade, but why stop there? Demand for space is growing as fast as launch rates allow, but there are opportunities beyond building rockets and vehicles. Startups will likely define the future of software, automation, and launch-related functions if these founders have anything to say about it.
Future of Space Operations launch challenge
Presented by Aerospace Corporation
Five finalists will have the exclusive opportunity to pitch their startup and pitch in front of our judges on the Space Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 this October. A winner will receive expert feedback sessions with leaders in Aerospace Corporation, government and commercial companies to advance their projects and enhance collaboration opportunities.
Peter Beck takes over the space industry from the Finns
with Peter Beck (Rocket Lab)
As the founder and CEO of Rocket Lab, Peter Beck is a familiar face to anyone in the space industry. But the company’s ambitions go far beyond the popular Electron launch vehicle: Beck believes that to thrive, perhaps even survive, space companies will need to become fully integrated one-stop shops. Hear how Rocket Lab is pursuing this ambitious goal.
Riding the Wave: The Future of Space Investing
with Maureen Haverty (Seraphim Space), Katelin Holloway (Seven Seven Six), Jordan Noone (Embedded Ventures)
Private investment in commercial space companies has exploded in recent years, but investor appetite has been tempered more recently by higher interest rates, choppy performance in space stocks and geopolitical uncertainties. In this talk, we’ll discuss the future of space technology investing, which areas are oversaturated or undervalued, and whether this year will be make-or-break for space startups.
About TechCrunch Disrupt 2024
TechCrunch Disrupt is where you’ll find innovation for every stage of your startup. Whether you’re a budding founder with a revolutionary idea, a seasoned startup looking to scale, or an investor looking for the next big thing, TechCrunch Disrupt offers unparalleled resources, connections, and expert knowledge to propel your venture forward. Over 10,000 startup leaders will attend this year’s event on October 28-30 in San Francisco.
We look forward to hearing from these space leaders at this year’s show. Buy your tickets here.
