Applications to host side events around TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 in San Francisco will close at midnight Pacific time on Friday September 4, with organisers inviting founders, investors, companies and community groups to submit plans for gatherings across the Bay Area.
The programme will run alongside the main TechCrunch Disrupt conference at Moscone West from October 13 to 15. Side events may take place between October 10 and 16, giving approved hosts the opportunity to engage with conference attendees beyond the official programme.
TechCrunch expects more than 10,000 innovators, founders, investors and technology industry leaders to attend the three-day event. Approved side events will be listed on the official calendar and promoted through TechCrunch’s marketing channels.
What can be hosted as a TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 side event?
Organisers say the format is open, provided events offer meaningful value to founders, investors and the wider start-up community. Previous examples have included industry roundtables, venture capital office hours, practical workshops, private dinners and informal networking gatherings.
Events must be held in person in the Bay Area and be open to both Disrupt attendees and members of the wider public. TechCrunch recommends evening events during the main conference, when attendees are available after the day’s sessions and networking activity.
Hosts will be responsible for shaping the event’s content and format, while the programme offers exposure to potential partners, investors and collaborators. The organisers also say the initiative can help participating companies and communities present their expertise to a wider audience.
Applicants are expected to have a venue, event title and description prepared before completing the form. They are also advised to review the Side Events Host Guide and the programme’s host terms and conditions.
There is no charge to apply or participate. Applications submitted by the deadline will be assessed with priority given to events considered likely to provide substantial benefit to the start-up ecosystem.
The deadline of midnight Pacific time on September 4 is 8am in the UK on Saturday September 5. Further questions can be directed to TechCrunch’s Side Events team.
