TechCrunch's Startup Battlefield 200, the early-stage startup competition held annually at TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco, is gearing up for its 2026 edition, promising visibility, investor access, and growth opportunities for young companies. The program, which selects 200 startups from a pool of thousands of global applicants, offers a platform for early-stage companies to launch and scale.

Each year, the selected startups receive exhibit space at TechCrunch Disrupt, access to masterclasses and networking opportunities, and direct exposure to press and investors. Participants also have the chance to pitch live at Disrupt and compete for a $100,000 equity-free prize. The competition aims to prepare early-stage startups for visibility, investment, and rapid scaling.

Startup Battlefield 200 is designed to provide unmatched exposure and credibility to participating companies. The program's selective nature ensures that only the most promising startups are chosen, increasing their chances of attracting investment and media attention. The opportunity to pitch on the main Disrupt stage offers a high-stakes platform for startups to showcase their innovations to a large audience.

Applications for the 2026 cohort will open in mid-February. Early-stage startups interested in participating are encouraged to join the Startup Battlefield email list to receive updates and application information. The program is open to startups from around the world, representing a diverse range of industries and technologies.