Get your Startup Battlefield applications in now!

Applications for the Startup Battlefield at Disrupt SF are now open. We’re looking for new, yet-to-launch startups to debut on stage in front of top investors and a massive audience. Former judges include Brian Pokorny (SV Angel), Roelof Botha (Sequoia Capital), Beth Seidenberg (Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers), Aileen Lee (Cowboy Ventures) and Jeff Clavier (SoftTech VC).

Though our event is in San Francisco, we encourage startups from across the U.S. and around the world to apply. TechCrunch is not looking for the best startups in our backyard. We’re looking for the best startups, period. The Disrupt SF 2015 winner, Agrilyst, was a Brooklyn-based company. They’ve now raised raised a seed round of $1 million led by Brooklyn Bridge Ventures. The winner in 2014? Alfred, also New York based. They’ve raised a seed and Series A totaling $12.5 million, acquired WunWun Tech and launched Hello Alfred, a single text portal for all your in-home service needs.

Disrupt SF is open to all startups regardless of geography but I’m looking at you NY-based teams to continue our winning streak, so make me proud and apply. Do it here.

disrupt cup

Disrupt SF will take place September 12-14 at Pier 48. Selected companies also receive free demo space in Startup Alley, tickets to VIP events, a Battlefield-only reception and, of course, TechCrunch swag. Prior to the event, startups work with TechCrunch editors to hone and polish their pitches.

All verticals are welcome, including (but not limited to) biotech, security, supercomputing, e-commerce, on-demand services, battery technology, mobile consumer, healthcare, bitcoin, hardware and the next big thing in dev tools.

Full details on eligibility can be found here. There are no fees to participate in the Startup Battlefield.

Techcrunch event

Disrupt 2026: The tech ecosystem, all in one room

Your next round. Your next hire. Your next breakout opportunity. Find it at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where 10,000+ founders, investors, and tech leaders gather for three days of 250+ tactical sessions, powerful introductions, and market-defining innovation. Register now to save up to $400.

Save up to $300 or 30% to TechCrunch Founder Summit

1,000+ founders and investors come together at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 for a full day focused on growth, execution, and real-world scaling. Learn from founders and investors who have shaped the industry. Connect with peers navigating similar growth stages. Walk away with tactics you can apply immediately

Offer ends March 13.

San Francisco, CA | October 13-15, 2026

Building a great company encompasses much more than strong launch but, in our humble opinion, it doesn’t hurt to come out of the gate strong, too. Applications are now open through June 23rd at 9pm PT. To apply, head on over to our Startup Battlefield page.

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