Your shot at VC access, global exposure, TechCrunch coverage, and $100,000 in equity-free funding is closing.
Startup Battlefield 200 Applications officially close in just two weeks. If you’re building a startup — or know a founder who is — now is the time to act.
Applications until May 27 for the opportunity to take the stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 along with 200 of the world’s most promising early-stage startups.
This window is closing fast
Pre-Series A founders, consider this your countdown reminder: The strongest startups are already entering the arena.
If your startup is already set, don’t wait to complete your application. The final stretch moves quickly and late submissions risk getting lost in the noise.
Know a startup that deserves the spotlight? Recommend them now so they still have time to apply before the deadline.
More than a pitch competition
The Startup Battlefield 200 is where breakout companies are discovered.
Selected startups will pitch live at Disrupt 2026 in front of 10,000+ attendees, top VCs, global media and the entire TechCrunch audience. This is your chance to gain investor exposure, get direct VC feedback, and prove that your company is among the next generation of category-defining startups.
Early adopters get an advantage: more time to prepare, more opportunities to stand out with TechCrunch editors, and more momentum before the competition heats up.
Who should apply?
We are looking for ambitious early-stage startups creating innovative products that are potentially category-defining.
Applications are open worldwide in all branches. Most selected companies are pre-Series A, although selected Series A startups may qualify on a case-by-case basis.
To apply, startups should have:
- Founders with vision, execution and real traction.
This is the same startpad that helped accelerate companies like Dropbox, Discord, Fitbit, Trello and Mint.
Thousands of applications every year. Only 200 are selected. Only 20 finalists perform live on the Disrupt Stage. A startup takes the crown.
What the selected startups receive
The Startup Battlefield 200 offers one of the highest ROI opportunities available to early-stage founders — and the application is free.
The selected startups receive:
- Global exposure on TechCrunch channels.
- A free exhibition table for all 3 days of Disrupt.
- Four access stop passes.
- A selected launch profile in the event app.
- Press list access and lead generation opportunities.
- Exclusive founders masterclass.
- The chance to play live on the Disrupt Stage.
- Direct feedback from top VCs.
- A shot at $100,000 in non-equity funding.
Applications until May 27
Two weeks. That’s all.
Breakout founders don’t wait for the last hour — they’re already making their move.
If you’re building something class-defining or know a startup that deserves the spotlight, submit your nomination and complete your application before May 27.
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