TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is set to open in three days, bringing founders, investors, and technology leaders to Moscone West in San Francisco. The event’s program combines startup showcases, a competition for early-stage companies, and sessions on topics ranging from AI to fundraising.
Startup discovery is central to the event
Startup Battlefield 200 will put a selected group of early-stage startups in front of investors, media, potential customers, and the wider technology ecosystem. Twenty finalists will compete on the Disrupt Stage for a $100,000 prize and the Disrupt Cup.
Visitors can also explore the Expo Hall, where more than 300 startups from different sectors and stages will present what they are building. The exhibition offers attendees a chance to speak directly with founders and explore products, ideas, and potential investment opportunities.
Sessions cover the work of building and growing companies
Beyond the startup showcases, the program includes more than 200 sessions led by more than 250 technology leaders across six stages. Roundtables and breakout sessions are also part of the schedule.
Topics include AI, product, go-to-market, fundraising, finance, infrastructure, and scaling. The sessions are designed to give attendees opportunities to ask questions, make connections, and hear industry insights and announcements.
Pass offers include group and second-ticket savings
With three days remaining before the event, TechCrunch is advertising savings of up to $100 on passes. Buyers can also get a second ticket of the same type at 50% off, while groups of four or more attendees can access additional savings.
The article says people recently affected by a layoff can attend with an Expo+ Pass for $75. The event opens on October 13 at 8 a.m. PT, giving prospective attendees a short window to consider the available pass options.
A shared visit can broaden the experience
Disrupt is presented as an opportunity to meet people across the startup ecosystem as well as discover companies and products. Attending with a co-founder, colleague, or peer can make it easier to divide time between the Expo Hall, sessions, and conversations.
For visitors focused on early-stage startups, the combination of Startup Battlefield 200 and the broader showcase offers two ways to encounter companies at different points in their development. Those looking for broader industry discussion can turn to the stages, roundtables, and breakouts.