Final Call for Aspiring Founders
In the world of startups, Dropbox once faced a crowd of skeptics, Cloudflare introduced edge networking to an unaware audience, and Discord was merely a gaming project named Hammer & Chisel. Each of these companies has a shared origin: Startup Battlefield 200.
This isn’t just a coincidence; it’s a trend that begins with one crucial step: applying.
Startup Battlefield 200 is not merely about showcasing polished ventures; it’s a platform for the most promising ideas. Whether you’re pre-launch or have yet to generate revenue, what counts is the potential impact of your innovation—meaningful change rather than mere increments.
If you or a visionary founder you know is creating something impactful, the application becomes the first step of your pitch. Submit your application by May 27.
Beyond Just a Pitch
Startup Battlefield 200 is the stage where rising stars are unearthed.
Chosen startups will have the chance to present live on the Disrupt Stage to over 10,000 attendees, including leading VCs, international media, and the wider TechCrunch audience. This is a prime opportunity for investor engagement, direct feedback from VCs, and establishing your startup’s place among the next wave of groundbreaking companies.
Every selected startup will receive:
- A fully financed three-day exhibition booth at Disrupt.
- Complimentary passes for the entire team.
- Personalized pitch training.
- Masterclasses with top-tier VCs and industry operators.
- A highlighted startup profile in the event app.
- Access to press lists and lead generation opportunities.
- Chances for TechCrunch editorial features, podcasts, and speaking engagements as your company evolves.
Each selected company will pitch, whether on the Disrupt Stage or the Pitch Showcase Stage, putting founders in front of the investors, media, and partners who come to Disrupt specifically to discover the future.
You don’t need to be among the top 20 for this experience to alter your path. Start by nominating and applying here.
Proven Success of Startup Battlefield 200
Over 1,700 companies have participated in Startup Battlefield 200, collectively raising more than $32 billion and achieving over 250 exits, including acquisitions by giants like Microsoft, Google, Salesforce, Uber, and Amazon.
The network is extensive, with alumni even acquiring each other: for instance, Dropbox acquired fellow Battlefield 200 alum DocSend in 2021.
This platform has also propelled companies like Fitbit, Trello, and Mint to new heights.
Every one of these success stories stems from founders who were willing to publicly invest in themselves in front of an audience that mattered. Apply and learn more here.
Are You a Suitable Applicant?
We seek driven early-stage startups that are crafting innovative, potentially game-changing products.
Global applications are accepted across all sectors, primarily targeting pre-Series A startups, although select Series A startups may be considered on an individual basis.
To qualify, startups should possess:
- A working MVP.
- A clear and compelling product demonstration.
- Significant market potential.
- Founders with vision, execution capabilities, and genuine traction.
Each year, thousands submit applications, but only 200 are chosen. Just 20 finalists will pitch live on the Disrupt Stage, with one startup emerging victorious to claim $100,000 in equity-free funding.
Last Chance to Take Action
Founders who hesitate until they feel fully prepared often miss their chance. You don’t need to be flawless; you just need to be promising.
If you’ve been contemplating this opportunity, here’s the truth: the worst possible outcome is not being selected this time—allowing you to return next year with a stronger application after going through the process.
The stage is significant. The community endures. The milestones are real.
If you’re developing something that could redefine its category—or know a startup worthy of the spotlight—submit your nomination and complete your application before May 27.
