2026 plans: What’s next for Startup Battlefield 200

TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 200 is the flagship early-stage startup competition held at TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco, spotlighting the world’s most promising young companies. Each year, thousands of applicants from around the globe vie for one of 200 slots in the cohort, which provides unparalleled visibility, access to top-tier investors, and opportunities to grow. 

Early-stage startups from around the world are joining the Startup Battlefield email list to be the first to know when applications open this month. Don’t miss a beat if you’re ready to join the action. 

What is Startup Battlefield? 

Startup Battlefield 200 is a highly selective startup launch program designed to prepare early-stage startups for visibility, investment, and scale. Each year, TechCrunch hand-selects 200 companies to gain unmatched exposure, credibility, and opportunities to scale faster than they ever imagined:

• Free exhibit space at TechCrunch Disrupt for all three days

• Exclusive access to masterclasses and curated networking

• Direct exposure to top-tier press and investors 

• A chance to pitch live at Disrupt

• A shot at the main Disrupt Stage to compete for a $100,000 equity-free prize and the iconic Disrupt Cup 

Alumni who’ve entered Startup Battlefield 

Startup Battlefield’s track record is among the strongest in the industry — alumni represent 1,700+ companies that have collectively raised over $32 billion and include well-known names such as: 

• Mint.
• … and many others that have gone on to significant exits and growth.

What to expect in 2026 

In 2026, Startup Battlefield 200 will once again bring together a global cohort of high-potential early-stage startups building across AI, climate, health, fintech, and beyond.

Applications will open in the middle of this month and close in mid-June. Selected startups will be notified around September 1, when the virtual preparation program begins — designed to help founders refine their story, sharpen their pitch, and get ready for the pitch of a lifetime on the TechCrunch Disrupt stage.

Ready to join the battle this year? 

For founders and investors alike, Startup Battlefield 200 remains one of the most influential global early-stage startup stages — a place where breakout companies get seen, funded, and scaled.

Don’t miss a moment of the action: Join the Startup Battlefield mailing list to be the first to know when applications open next month.