TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, set for October 13-15 at Moscone West, San Francisco, will feature six new stages designed to help founders and investors make timely, informed decisions in volatile markets.
Exploring the Six Stages
Disrupt 2026 will host over 10,000 participants, including founders, investors, and operators, across 250+ sessions. The stages will address key operational pressures such as AI-native competition, infrastructure bottlenecks, and shifting venture dynamics.
Disrupt Stage: Market Insights
The Disrupt Stage will serve as the event's hub, featuring prominent founders, tech leaders, and investors discussing market shifts. The Startup Battlefield 200 will also occur here, showcasing promising startups. Interested startups can apply by May 29.
Builders Stage: Founders' Tactical Toolkit
The Builders Stage focuses on the operational realities of startup life, covering fundraising, hiring, and scaling. Sessions will address challenges like non-AI startup competition for attention and capital. Featured speakers include Nina Achadjian of Index Ventures and Josh Reeves of Gusto.
Smart Money Stage: Following Capital Trends
This stage examines the evolving fintech landscape, spotlighting areas like stablecoins and payments infrastructure. Speakers such as Jack Zhang of Airwallex and Lotti Siniscalco of Emergence Capital will guide discussions on fintech's future amid increased scrutiny.
Smart Systems Stage: AI Infrastructure
Focusing on the physical infrastructure powering AI, this stage addresses energy, grid connectivity, and industrial systems. Highlights include sessions on the AI data center energy crisis and infrastructure automation, with speakers Jeff Lawson of Inertia and David Kirtley of Helion.
AI in the Real World Stage: Practical AI Deployments
This stage explores AI deployment in robotics, manufacturing, and industrial operations, moving beyond hype to operational realities. It aims to highlight businesses that can transition from prototype to production effectively.
AI Stage: Software Transformation
Presented by Google Cloud, the AI Stage delves into how generative AI and AI agents are reshaping software companies. Sessions will explore AI-native SaaS models and enterprise AI adoption.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 offers early bird discounts up to $410, with additional savings on a second ticket. Register now to secure your spot.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2026/05/13/introducing-the-6-stages-of-techcrunch-disrupt-2026-built-for-todays-tougher-startup-market/
