Early-stage founders, this is your moment!
Are youready to put your startup to the test on the ultimate global stage? The Startup Battlefield is calling. Nominations forTechCrunch Startup Battlefield 200the world’s most iconic startup pitch competition, are officially open.
Step onto themain stage atTechCrunch Disrupt 2026and go head-to-head in front of world-class VC judges and the entire TechCrunch audience. This is where breakout companies are forged. Compete for$100,000 in equity-free funding, earn global exposure, and get real, unfiltered feedback from the investors who shape the future of tech.
Startup Battlefield alumni includeDropbox, Discord, Fitbit, Trello and CloudFlare— over1,700 startupsthat once stood exactly where you are now.
The next breakout doesn’t happen by accident.Nominate now.
Competitionis fierce — enter early
Thousands of startups apply each year, and this year’s field will be even more competitive. TechCrunch reviewseverynomination, but founders who enter early give themselves a strategic edge. Ifyou’reserious about winning, don’t wait to join the fight.
Startup Battlefield 200perks
- Free exhibit table forall three daysof Disrupt
- 4 complimentary Disrupt passes
- Startup branding and listing in the Disrupt event app
- Press list access and lead-generation opportunities
- Access to exclusive founder masterclasses
- The chance to pitch live on theDisrupt Stage
- Direct feedback from top-tier, world-famous VCs
- A shot at$100,000 equity-free prize money
Explore the full list ofperks.
Techcrunch event
Boston, MA
|
June 23, 2026
What it takes to enter the arena
We’relooking for bold, early-stage founders with an MVP and a vision that challenges the status quo. Ifyou’rebootstrapped, pre-seed, or seed-funded,this battlefield was made for you. Series Astartupsin capital-intensive industries may also qualify.
Start the battle today
Nominations close mid-June, but championsdon’twait for the last call. Prepare early.Nominateearly.Enter Startup Battlefield 200and fight for your place on tech’s biggest stage.