TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is set to begin in three days, as Moscone West in San Francisco prepares to host hundreds of startups alongside thousands of founders, investors, and technology executives. The event officially opens its doors on October 13 at 8 a.m. Pacific Time.
As the countdown concludes, organizers are highlighting discount opportunities for attendees. Passes offer savings of up to $100, with additional incentives for groups. Attendees bringing a co-founder, colleague, or peer can secure a second ticket of the same tier at half price. Larger groups of four or more attendees can access further discounted rates.
At the core of the conference remains Startup Battlefield 200, a competition that has served as a launchpad for early-stage companies for over a decade. The event features 20 finalists who will present to investors, media outlets, potential clients, and the broader tech ecosystem on the Disrupt Stage. Winners will compete for the annual $100,000 prize and the prestigious Disrupt Cup.
Beyond the competition, the Expo Hall will showcase more than 300 startups spanning various sectors and stages of development. This setup allows attendees to engage directly with founders to uncover emerging products, investment prospects, and innovative ideas outside of the main stage presentations.
For those prioritizing content alongside discovery, the agenda includes over 200 sessions led by more than 250 technology leaders across six distinct stages. Discussions will cover roundtables, breakout sessions, and keynotes addressing critical topics such as artificial intelligence, go-to-market strategies, fundraising, finance, infrastructure, and company scaling. These forums aim to provide industry insights and announcements before they reach the mainstream.
Special accommodation has also been made for individuals recently impacted by workforce reductions. Those affected by layoffs can register for an Expo+ Pass for just $75, ensuring continued access to networking and exhibition opportunities at the event.
Can we talk about the Startup Battlefield winners? Last year’s champion just got acquired two months later. Wild.
The $75 layoff pass is a genuinely kind gesture. Tech events could learn from that accessibility approach everywhere else.
I’m still skeptical about the value of these massive conferences. Networking seems harder now than ever before.
Thirty hundred startups is a lot to navigate. Does anyone have a recommended schedule for the AI keynotes specifically?
The half-price group discount is actually pretty generous this year. Might bring my whole team along this time.