Your shot at VC access, global visibility, TechCrunch coverage, and $100,000 equity-free funding is running out.

Startup Battlefield 200 applications officially close in just two weeks. If you’re building a breakout startup — or know a founder who is — now is the time to act.

Apply by May 27 for the opportunity to take the stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 alongside 200 of the world’s most promising early-stage startups.

This window is closing fast

Pre-Series A founders, consider this your countdown reminder: The strongest startups are already entering the arena.

If your startup has already been nominated, don’t wait to complete your application. The final stretch moves fast, and late submissions risk getting lost in the noise.

Know a startup that deserves the spotlight? Nominate them now so they still have time to apply before the deadline.

More than a pitch competition

Startup Battlefield 200 is where breakout companies get discovered.

Selected startups will showcase live at Disrupt 2026 in front of 10,000+ attendees, leading VCs, global media, and the full TechCrunch audience. This is your chance to gain investor exposure, receive direct VC feedback, and prove your company belongs among the next generation of category-defining startups.

Early applicants gain an advantage: more time to prepare, more opportunities to stand out with TechCrunch editors, and more momentum before competition intensifies.

Who should apply?

We’re looking for ambitious early-stage startups building innovative, potentially category-defining products.

Applications are open globally across all industries. Most selected companies are pre-Series A, though select Series A startups may qualify on a case-by-case basis.

To apply, startups should have:

• A functional MVP.

• A clear product demo.

• Strong market potential.

• Founders with vision, execution, and real traction.

This is the same launchpad that helped accelerate companies like Dropbox, Discord, Fitbit, Trello, and Mint.

Thousands apply every year. Only 200 are selected. Just 20 finalists pitch live on the Disrupt Stage. One startup takes the crown.

What selected startups receive

Startup Battlefield 200 offers one of the highest-ROI opportunities available to early-stage founders — and it’s free to apply.

Selected startups receive:

• Global exposure across TechCrunch channels.

• A free exhibit table for all 3 days of Disrupt.

• Four all-access Disrupt passes.

• A featured startup profile in the event app.

• Press list access and lead-generation opportunities.

• Exclusive founder masterclasses.

• The opportunity to pitch live on the Disrupt Stage.

• Direct feedback from leading VCs.

• A shot at $100,000 in equity-free funding.

Apply before May 27

Two weeks. That’s it.

The founders who break through aren’t waiting for the final hour — they’re already making their move.

If you’re building something category-defining, or know a startup that deserves the spotlight, submit your nomination and complete your application before May 27.