2026 plans: What's next for Startup Battlefield 200
Startup Battlefield 200 applications will open in mid-February. Join the iconic startup pitch competition by joining the mailing list.
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Startup Battlefield 200is the flagship early-stage startup competition held atDisruptin San Francisco, spotlighting the world’s most promising young companies. Each year, thousands of applicants from around the globe vie for one of 200 slots in the cohort, which provides unparalleled visibility, access to top-tier investors, and opportunities to grow.
Early-stage startups from around the world are joining theStartup Battlefield email listto be the first to know when applications open this month. Don’t miss a beat if you’re ready to join the action.
What is Startup Battlefield?
Startup Battlefield 200is a highly selective startup launch program designed to prepare early-stage startups for visibility, investment, and scale. Each year, hand-selects 200 companies to gain unmatched exposure, credibility, and opportunities to scale faster than they ever imagined:
- Free exhibit space at Disrupt for all three days
- Exclusive access to masterclasses and curated networking
- Direct exposure to top-tier press and investors
- A chance to pitch live at Disrupt
- A shot at the main Disrupt Stage to compete for a$100,000 equity-free prizeand the iconic Disrupt Cup
Alumni who’ve entered Startup Battlefield
Startup Battlefield’s track record is among the strongest in the industry — alumni represent1,700+ companiesthat have collectively raised over $32 billion and include well-known names such as:
- Dropbox.
- Discord.
- Cloudflare.
- Trello.
- Mint.
- … and many others that have gone on to significant exits and growth.
What to expect in 2026
In 2026,Startup Battlefield 200will once again bring together a global cohort of high-potential early-stage startups building across AI, climate, health, fintech, and beyond.
Applications will open in the middle of this month and close in mid-June. Selected startups will be notified aroundSeptember 1, when the virtual preparation program begins — designed to help founders refine their story, sharpen their pitch, and get ready for the pitch of a lifetime on the Disrupt stage.
Ready to join the battle this year?
For founders and investors alike, Startup Battlefield 200 remains one of the most influential global early-stage startup stages — a place where breakout companies get seen, funded, and scaled.
Don’t miss a moment of the action:Join the Startup Battlefield mailing listto be the first to know when applications open next month.