Qualification & Review Questions
What are the pre-requisites to apply?
Companies must have an MVP. We are looking for companies that are bootstrapped, pre-seed, or seed-level funding. In very rare cases, some series A companies may qualify on a case-by-case/industry basis. The ideal fit for Startup Battlefield has had minimal press coverage, and is going to showcase something disruptive on stage. We accept startups from all over the world, any country and any industry who are focused on solving any problem.
What does TechCrunch mean by “minimal press coverage”?
Typically, local coverage or industry specific coverage is fine. Some founder features are okay as long as the crux of the technology has yet to be showcased! Apply and show your coverage.
How do you select the final 200?
Startups are selected for a combination of reasons: product, change to industry, impact in geographic region, founding team, competitive landscape, etc. TechCrunch features founders from across the globe in any industry, as long as they are making significant change.
How do you select the final 20?
The top 20 startups selected from the Startup Battlefield 200 are a highlight of the larger cohort. Companies are selected based off of the step function change they provide to their industry or geography. You have to a part of the 200 in order to qualify for the 20.
Why was I rejected?
Many Startup Battlefield companies have applied multiple times before being selected. We receive hundreds of great applications from around the globe and in our effort to find the most disruptive, funded and unfunded ventures representing different verticals and geographies, we have to pass on many outstanding companies. Our decision has little bearing on your future success as we’ve had many companies go on to greatness without us.
Application Questions
What is the application process/dates?
For 2024, there will be one Global Startup Battlefield taking place in person at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024. Applications will open March 6th and close June 10th at 11:59pm PT.
Once the application cycle is complete, each application is reviewed by the Startup Battlefield team at least twice. Selected companies are notified in the weeks prior to TechCrunch Disrupt.
Where can I see all the application questions?
Yes, click here for a preview of all the questions.
Does is cost anything to participate/apply?
It’s important to note that TechCrunch takes no fees or equity from Startups for applying and participating in the Startup Battlefield. There is no fee to apply or particpate in Startup Battlefield 200.
However, once a startup confirms their participation, if they decide to back out/cancel, a fee of $1995 will be applied.
Does TechCrunch cover any expenses we incur?
Startups are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, food, visa, insurance, etc.
As a member of Startup Battlefield we provide the following to you free of charge:
- One 30″ round cocktail table, including wifi, a table-top sign and black linens for exhibition in the Disrupt exhibit hall
- Exhibit for all 3 days of the show
- Inclusion in the Disrupt event mobile app and announcement of participating startups on www.techcrunch.com
- Passes for 4 individuals to attend all three days of Disrupt.
- Additional passes can be purchased at 50% off current registration rates for additional Startup team members.
- Two-minute fast pitch on the Showcase Stage located in the heart of the Disrupt exhibit hall
- Access to curated networking and special pre-event and on-site sessions and receptions
- A chance to be selected for the Startup Battlefield 20, to compete for $100K equity-free prize
Is my application confidential?
Yes, your application will be kept confidential and shared with the internal TechCrunch review committee only.
Will TechCrunch interview me during the application process?
Due to the volume of applications, we cannot interview everyone. Occasionally we will interview an applicant but there is no “interview round.” Most of our participants are selected without an interview.
Is there a video required for the application?
We DO want to see your product working in real-time. MVPs are great for this. Feel free to use your phone or screen grabs to record the video. Production quality isn’t important.
We are NOT looking for a classic animated startup video with oddly cheery music in the background with a voice-over narration about what you do and/or marketing-level quality video.
I accidentally submitted my application prematurely, am I doomed?
No, just email us at battlefield@techcrunch.com and we can delete the application and you can re-submit a new application.
When will I be notified?
Typically applicants are notified of their acceptance into the Startup Battlefield 200 about 2 months prior to TechCrunch Disrupt.
Can I submit two applications?
Founders can submit applications for each individual company.
Program Questions
Where is Startup Battlefield 200?
Startup Battlefield takes place at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024, TechCrunch’s summit conference, in San Francisco on October 28-30.
How many days do I exhibit and do I have to exhibit all days?
As a member of Startup Battlefield 200, you exhibit all 3 days of the conference and are required to participate in all program activities, including exhibiting in the exhibit hall for all 3 days.
What are rehearsals and trainings?
Startup Battlefield 200 companies receive weekly trainings on company building, scaling, etc. And founders get personalized feedback during pitch teardown sessions. Companies selected as Startup Battlefield 20 as Finalists go through a minimum of four rehearsals with our TechCrunch Battlefield Team and other experts. They are required to ensure that all teams are prepared to pitch and field Q&A on-stage. Sessions will be held virtually.
Do you invest/take any equity in the startups?
TechCrunch does not invest or take equity in our Startup Battlefield cohort at this time. That said, one of the strengths of the program is the visibility of the startups to top VCs. Many of our companies raise funds in the months following TechCrunch Disrupt.
What do I get as a member of Startup Battlefield 200?
- One 30″ round cocktail table, including wifi, a table-top sign and black linens for exhibition in the Disrupt exhibit hall
- Exhibit for all 3 days of the show
- Inclusion in the Disrupt event mobile app and announcement of participating startups on www.techcrunch.com
- Passes for 4 individuals to attend all three days of Disrupt.
- Additional passes can be purchased at 50% off current registration rates for additional Startup team members.
- Two-minute fast pitch on the Showcase Stage located in the heart of the Disrupt exhibit hall
- Access to curated networking and special pre-event and on-site sessions and receptions
- A chance to be selected for the Startup Battlefield 20, to compete for $100K equity-free prize
Where can I learn more about Startup Battlefield 200?
Head on over to the main Startup Battlefield page.