Startup Battlefield 200<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0applications\u00a0are open, but only for three more weeks. Apply by May 27 for your shot at VC access, global visibility, TechCrunch coverage, $100K equity-free, and more opportunities for major scaling impact.<\/p>\n Pre-Series A\u00a0founders\u00a0\u2014 and anyone who knows a startup worth backing \u2014 this is your reminder: the deadline is approaching fast, and the strongest contenders are already entering the arena. If your startup has been nominated,\u00a0don\u2019t\u00a0wait.\u00a0Complete your application now before the window closes.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Know a startup that deserves to step into the spotlight?\u00a0Nominate them<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0now\u00a0to give them time to complete the application by the\u00a0deadline.<\/p>\n This is not just another pitch competition. Startup Battlefield 200 puts you on the main stage at\u00a0TechCrunch Disrupt 2026<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0in front of 10,000+ attendees, top-tier investors, media, and the global TechCrunch audience. You are competing live, getting direct VC feedback, and proving your company belongs among the next breakout startups.<\/p>\n Waiting until the last minute is the fastest way to lose your edge. Early applicants have more time to prepare, more opportunities to stand out to the TechCrunch editorial team, and a stronger chance to make an impact before the competition intensifies.\u00a0Nominate your\u00a0startup,\u00a0then\u00a0finish the job and apply.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n We\u2019re\u00a0looking for ambitious early-stage startups\u00a0building\u00a0innovative, potentially category-defining products. Applications are open globally across every industry. Most selected companies are pre-Series A, though select Series A startups may qualify case by case. A functional MVP and clear product demo are\u00a0required. Most importantly,\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0looking for founders building with vision, execution, and real market impact.<\/p>\n This is the same launchpad\u00a0where\u00a0companies like Dropbox, Discord, Fitbit, Trello, and Mint gained early momentum<\/strong><\/a>. Thousands apply every year. Only 200\u00a0are\u00a0selected. Just 20 finalists pitch live on the Disrupt Stage. One startup takes the crown.<\/p>\n Techcrunch event<\/p>\n \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSan Francisco, CA<\/span> Selected startups receive one of the highest ROI opportunities available to early-stage founders.\u00a0It\u2019s\u00a0free to apply, and the potential return \u2014 from investor exposure to media coverage and customer growth \u2014 can create real scaling impact.<\/p>\n Applications close May 27. The founders who break through are not waiting until the final hour \u2014 they are already making their move.<\/p>\n If you are building something category-defining, or know a founder who is, now is the time to step forward.\u00a0Nominate<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0your startup \u2014 or one that deserves the spotlight \u2014 and\u00a0complete\u00a0your application<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0before the deadline runs out.<\/p>\n When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission<\/a>. This doesn\u2019t affect our editorial independence.<\/em><\/p>\nGlobal visibility\u00a0that\u2019ll\u00a0launch your startup<\/h2>\n
![\"TechCrunch](\"https:\/\/techcrunch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/SB200-2013-Jason-Citron-Discord-1.jpg)
Who should apply?<\/h2>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOctober 13-15, 2026<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat selected startups receive<\/h2>\n
![\"Kevin](\"https:\/\/techcrunch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/54889167026_7a80a409c4_o.jpg)
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Apply before May 27<\/h2>\n
![\"TechCrunch](\"https:\/\/techcrunch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Startup-Battlefield-2023-2.jpg)