Day 1 of TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is officially underway at Moscone West in San Francisco, gathering more than 10,000 startup founders, investors, and tech leaders. The annual event features over 250 speakers, 300 exhibiting startups, and six industry stages focusing on scaling, artificial intelligence, fintech, climate tech, and other sectors.
Stages, Panels, and Pitch Competitions
The conference features multiple content tracks across the Disrupt Stage, Builders Stage, and Industry Stages. Discussions span physical AI, the future of intelligent systems, fundraising, hiring, and agentic AI. Prominent sessions include presentations and discussions featuring industry leaders from companies such as Rivian, Cerebras Systems, Science Corporation, Google Cloud, and the New York Stock Exchange.
Additionally, the event hosts the Startup Battlefield pitch competition. Twenty selected early-stage startups are competing for a $100,000 equity-free prize and the Disrupt Cup. Specialized categories include Built World—highlighting technologies for real estate, construction, and smart cities—and Sustainability, showcasing early-stage companies addressing environmental and climate challenges with lightning pitches.
Networking and Expo Hall
The Expo Hall serves as the central hub for the 300+ exhibiting startups. Attendees can utilize event badges featuring Klik technology to exchange contact information via the event app. Dedicated networking spaces include the Networking Lounge, powered by Signify Business Cash World Elite Mastercard by Wells Fargo, and the Deal Flow Cafe, which provides a designated area for founders and investors.
Beyond Moscone West, company-hosted side events, panels, and meetups are scheduled across San Francisco throughout the week. TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 runs from October 13 to October 15.
