TechCrunch's annual Startup Battlefield competition featured a strong showing from logistics, manufacturing, and materials startups this year, with 16 companies selected from thousands of applicants. The startups, part of the Battlefield 200, competed in their own pitch competitions, showcasing innovations aimed at disrupting traditional industries.

Among the logistics startups was GigU, an application designed to help ride-share and delivery drivers maximize their earnings. The app analyzes potential trips, providing drivers with data to determine which routes are the most profitable. "Its addressing the sore point that many drivers have, which is that trips often arent worth the money for all the hassle," TechCrunch noted. GigU aims to empower drivers to customize their ride-share experience and increase their overall income.

Glīd, another standout in the logistics category, is developing self-driving, autonomous vehicles for freight movement within railyards. The company previously won the 2025 TechCrunch Startup Battlefield for its system. Glīd's technology addresses the inefficiencies and complexities of railyard logistics, offering a solution to streamline operations and reduce costs.

TechCrunch's Startup Battlefield serves as a platform for early-stage companies to gain exposure, attract investment, and network with industry leaders. The top 20 finalists compete for the Startup Battlefield Cup and a $100,000 cash prize, while the remaining selectees benefit from the opportunity to showcase their innovations to a global audience. The competition highlights emerging trends and technologies across various sectors, providing insights into the future of innovation.