# TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Opens Side Event Applications
TechCrunch Disrupt, the flagship conference bringing together founders, investors, and tech leaders, is now accepting applications for Side Events at its 2026 edition. The deadline to submit is September 4.
Side Events represent a key opportunity for startups, investors, and corporate sponsors to host their own programming alongside the main conference. These range from pitch competitions and investor dinners to product launches and networking sessions. The format has become a staple of Disrupt's appeal, allowing participants to reach the conference's audience of thousands while controlling their own narrative and agenda.
The conference itself has grown into one of the tech industry's most visible convening spaces. Disrupt 2025 attracted more than 10,000 attendees and over 50,000 online viewers. The 2024 event featured emerging companies like xAI, Notion, and others who used the platform for major announcements. For early-stage startups, hosting a Side Event creates visibility with potential investors and customers in a single, concentrated window.
Side Events typically cost between $5,000 and $25,000 depending on scope and format, though TechCrunch has not published 2026 pricing publicly yet. Sponsors gain access to TechCrunch's audience, event venue space, and promotional support across the conference website and newsletters.
The application process requires organizers to describe their event concept, target audience, and expected attendance. TechCrunch's team reviews submissions and selects events that complement the main conference programming and attract the right demographics. Popular Side Event categories include accelerator showcases, industry verticals like fintech or climate tech, and investor-led networking forums.
For startups, the timing matters. Disrupt typically occurs in September or October, making it a natural moment for companies to announce funding rounds, product milestones, or partnerships. VCs use Disrupt to scout emerging talent and host portfolio company events. Corporate sponsors like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft use Side Events to promote their startup programs and developer tools.
The 2026 edition location has not yet been announced, though recent Disrupt events have rotated between San Francisco, New York, and Berlin. The venue significantly impacts Side Event logistics and attendance patterns.
Companies interested in hosting should note that the application process is competitive. TechCrunch evaluates concepts based on uniqueness, relevance to the broader startup ecosystem, and likelihood of drawing conference attendees. Events that duplicate existing programming or lack clear appeal to the target audience typically do not advance.
First-time Side Event hosts should prepare a clear one-page proposal outlining their concept, budget, and expected impact. Including estimated headcount and naming anchor sponsors or speakers strengthens applications considerably.