200 Battle starters close on May 27

Your shot at a VC acquisition, global exposure, TechCrunch coverage, and $100,000 in equity is ending.

200 Basic Battle Applications are closed in just two weeks. If you’re building a startup — or know a startup that is — now is the time to take action.

Apply by May 27 to get a chance to go on stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 along with 200 of the world’s leading startups.

This window is closing quickly

Pre-Series A founders, consider this your countdown reminder: Strong founders have already entered the arena.

If your starting point is already selected, don’t wait to complete your task. The final stretch moves quickly, and late deliveries can get messy.

Do you know the basics that need to be highlighted? Choose them now so there is still time to apply before the deadline.

More than a race

Startup Battlefield 200 is where startup companies emerge.

Selected startups will pitch live at Disrupt 2026 in front of 10,000+ attendees, VC leaders, media around the world, and the entire TechCrunch audience. This is your chance to get an investor pitch, receive direct VC feedback, and prove that your company is the next generation of startups.

Early adopters get an advantage: more time to prepare, more opportunities to interact with TechCrunch editors, and get up to speed before the competition.

Who should apply?

We are looking for startups who have the ability to start from scratch, which can define teams.

Applications are open worldwide in all industries. Most companies are classified as pre-Series A, although Series A startups may be eligible for cases and lawsuits.

To apply, starters must have:

• Founders with vision, execution, and real appeal.

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

Thousands of people apply every year. Only 200 have been selected. Only 20 finalists perform on the Disrupt Stage. One start takes the crown.

What the selected startups receive

Startup Battlefield 200 offers one of the highest ROI opportunities available to startups – and it is free to use.

Selected startups receive:

• Global exposure on TechCrunch channels.

• Free table for all three days of Confusion.

• Four passes All interference.

• A background in event programming.

• Journalists get the list and lead opportunities.

• Exclusive founder masterclasses.

• The opportunity to perform live on the Disrupt Stage.

• Direct feedback from leading VCs.

• Shooting at $100,000 in unfair money.

Apply before May 27

Two weeks. That’s right.

The pioneers who have passed are not waiting for the last hour – they are already starting to walk.

If you are creating something to describe, or know the basics that need to be highlighted, submit your choice and complete your application before May 27.