What we’re looking for in Startup Battlefield 2026, and how to apply in time for the May 27 deadline

Every year, I sift through thousands of Startup Battlefield applications, and a pattern emerges: the founders who truly belong on this stage are often the ones who doubted their readiness to apply. They worry they're too early, lack sufficient traction, or that the program is geared towards more established companies. However, I'd like to set the record straight: Startup Battlefield is not a competition for the most polished companies, but for the most promising ones.

The deadline to apply is May 27, which is just around the corner. If you're unsure about this year's Startup Battlefield, here's a quick rundown: it's a premier part of TechCrunch Disrupt, taking place in San Francisco from October 13-15. This event culminates in the crowning of this year's future champion, joining an impressive list of past winners like Cloudflare and Discord.

So, what are we looking for in a Startup Battlefield application? First and foremost, we seek companies with ideas that feel meaningfully different and category-defining, with the potential to make a significant impact in their industry or geography. We ask a simple question: Does this innovation change something genuinely?

When evaluating applications, we consider several key factors. Product and disruption are crucial: what are you building, and does it represent a real shift in how something works? We're not looking for a marginal improvement, but something that makes the existing solution feel obsolete.

The founding team's story is also vital. Why did you start this company? What problem are you trying to solve, and why are you the right person to tackle it?

Your origin story is part of the application, and founders who can articulate their conviction clearly stand out. We also value industry and geographic diversity. The Startup Battlefield 200 is a global cohort, and we actively seek companies from every corner of the world and every vertical in tech.

If you're building something important in a geography or sector that doesn't often get a spotlight, that matters to us. In terms of specifics, having press coverage is not a requirement, but showcasing your product is essential. A working MVP is a must, but you don't need customers or revenue.

Pre-launch companies are welcome, and having applied before doesn't hurt your chances. Bootstrapped, pre-seed, and seed companies are all eligible, and Series A companies are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. When applying, make sure to show your product in action, tell your story, and know your competitive landscape.