TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Side Event Applications Close September 4
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Side Event applications close September 4. Approved Bay Area events run October 10 to 16 and receive free official promotion.
Summary
TechCrunch is accepting applications through September 4 to host free Side Events around Disrupt 2026, which will bring more than 10,000 innovators, founders, investors and industry leaders to San Francisco from October 13 to 15. Approved in-person events may run anywhere in the Bay Area from October 10 to 16 and receive promotion through the official Side Events calendar and marketing channels.
Hosts control the format, with previous events including industry roundtables, VC office hours, workshops, dinners and networking happy hours. Events must welcome Disrupt attendees and the public, while priority goes to ideas benefiting founders, investors and the startup community. Evening events from October 13 to 15 are recommended because they face less competition and can capture post-conference interest. Applicants should secure a venue, prepare a title, description and location, review the Host Guide and terms, then submit their vision, goals and logistical needs. The Side Events team offers email assistance, support and exposure.
Positives
- More than 10,000 innovators, founders, investors and industry leaders are expected at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 in San Francisco.
- Approved Side Events receive promotion through the official calendar and TechCrunch marketing channels.
- Applications and participation cost nothing, lowering the barrier for companies, investors and community organizers.
- October 10 to 16 gives hosts a seven-day window for roundtables, office hours, workshops, dinners or networking events.
- Evening events from October 13 to 15 are recommended for less competition and stronger post-conference engagement.
Risks & concerns
- September 4 is the application deadline, leaving prospective hosts limited time to finalize plans.
- A Bay Area venue should be selected before applying because Side Events are exclusively in-person experiences.
- Every event must be open to both TechCrunch Disrupt attendees and the broader public.
- Applicants need a title, description, venue and compliance with the Host Guide and host terms before proceeding.
