TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is just around the corner! From October 13-15, over 10,000 innovators, founders, investors, and industry leaders will gather at our event in San Francisco’s Moscone West, but the Bay Area community gathering extends beyond those three days.

Through our Disrupt Side Events program, you can convene people anytime between October 10-16 for a custom event that will be promoted to Disrupt’s attendees. However, time is getting short — the application deadline for Side Events is this Friday, September 4, at midnight PT, so now is the time to submit your application!

What advantages come with hosting a Side Event?

Organizing a Side Event empowers you to dictate how your community interacts, putting your brand in the spotlight with those who matter most. Whether you’re a VC eager to initiate discussions, a business prepared to unveil groundbreaking innovations, or a community organizer with messages to deliver, this is your opportunity to:

• Connect directly with thousands of the brightest minds in technology.
• Create genuine connections with potential partners, investors, and collaborators.
• Control your narrative and exhibit your expertise on your own terms.
• Generate excitement that reaches well beyond the event itself.

All approved Side Events are promoted to Disrupt attendees and our broader audience through the official Side Events calendar and various marketing channels.

What types of Side Events can you organize?

Anything that aligns with your vision is likely to gain approval. Previous Disrupt events have hosted everything from industry roundtables and VC office hours to in-depth workshops, intimate dinners, and casual networking happy hours.

You have the freedom to design the format — all we ask is that you bring the enthusiasm and ensure it’s open to not only Disrupt attendees but also the general public. We suggest holding events in the evenings during Disrupt from October 13-15, as there’s less competition and increased post-conference excitement for meaningful discussions with engaged audiences.

What is the process to apply for a Side Event?

You can view the application form here, but it’s beneficial to have a few components finalized before beginning the application:

• Choose a venue in the Bay Area — this is focused on in-person gatherings.
• Prepare a title, description, and location for the event.
• Review the Side Events Host Guide and the Side Event Host T&Cs.

If you have further questions, we are ready to assist! Just reach out to our Side Events team via email, and we’ll respond to help.

We prioritize events that deliver substantial value to founders, investors, and the startup ecosystem, but ultimately, you know your community and target audience best! There is no cost to apply and participate, so we want to hear your innovative ideas.

Submit your application by September 4 to join Disrupt

Apply today and share your vision, objectives, and logistical requirements in your application, and we will take care of the rest to provide your team with the support and visibility needed to capitalize on the community and opportunities that Disrupt offers in San Francisco and the Bay Area.