TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 2023 applications now open

TechCrunch Editorial is On the Hunt for Early-Stage Founders

TechCrunch Editorial is seeking 200 early-stage founders to feature in Startup Battlefield at TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco this September. To highlight global innovation across multiple sectors, we expanded the Startup Battlefield program last year and it was a resounding success.

In our inaugural class of 200 startup founders from over 20 countries across 25 industries and diverse backgrounds, we showcased the best and brightest. This year stands to be even more competitive.

What’s in Store for Selected Founders

If selected out of the thousands of applications, this elite class of startups will receive:

• Full access to the show
• Exclusive workshops
• Investor office hours
• Mentorship
• Training
• Perks
• Free exhibition space on the show floor for all three days

All selected founders will get the opportunity to flash-pitch in front of investors and TechCrunch editors.

Showcasing Global Founders

Out of the Startup Battlefield 200, 20 companies will be selected as Startup Battlefield Finalists. The finalists will pitch on the Disrupt main stage in front of the entire TC audience, receive private pitch coaching and be featured on TechCrunch.

Not to mention, founders will pitch in front of global tier 1 venture firms such as Sequoia, Mayfield, SOSV and more.

The winner snags the $100,000 prize and the coveted Disrupt Cup – this is equity-free, no-strings attached money. It’s 100% free to apply and participate. TechCrunch does not require any equity from any contestants or the winner.

Why You Should Apply

The only way individual companies can exhibit on the show floor at Disrupt is through Startup Battlefield. The only way to be a Startup Battlefield Finalist is to be selected for Startup Battlefield 200!

You need to apply here before the May 15th deadline and we’ll start notifying people this summer.

Inside Startup Battlefield Podcast

We’re pulling back the curtain for a backstage look at the Startup Battlefield competition with the Inside Startup Battlefield podcast – a four-episode miniseries that takes you behind the scenes of one of tech’s most anticipated startup competitions.

Each episode is a deep dive into a different part of the competition, from the company selection process to crafting a standout pitch to getting to know the winner. Check out the first episode below for a great overview of what we’re looking for and why Startup Battlefield is different from any other startup competition out there!

The final two episodes of Inside Startup Battlefield will drop over the next two Mondays. Be sure to subscribe to any of the other podcasts in the TechCrunch Podcast Network to get these episodes direct in your podcast feed:

• Found
• Equity
• The TechCrunch Podcast
• Chain Reaction
• The TechCrunch Live Podcast

How to Become a Part of TechCrunch Disrupt

To be eligible for Startup Battlefield, your startup must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a Seed or Series A Stage Company: You can apply if you have raised less than $5 million in funding.
2. Have a Functional Product: We are looking for startups with a product that is already available to users.
3. Demonstrate Traction: Your startup should demonstrate significant traction, such as user growth, revenue or significant impact.

Apply Now

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your startup and receive the recognition and funding you deserve. Apply now and take the first step towards becoming a part of TechCrunch Disrupt!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Startup Battlefield?

  Startup Battlefield is a program that takes place at TechCrunch Disrupt, where early-stage startups can showcase their products and compete for funding.

• How do I apply to Startup Battlefield?

  You can apply by filling out the application form on our website. The deadline for applications is May 15th.

• What are the criteria for eligibility?

  To be eligible, your startup must meet the following criteria: be a Seed or Series A Stage Company, have a functional product and demonstrate traction.

• How many startups will be selected for Startup Battlefield?

  We will select 200 startups to participate in Startup Battlefield. Of these, 20 companies will be selected as finalists and receive additional recognition and funding.

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