TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Opens Applications for Official Community Side Events in San Francisco
Organisers of TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 have opened the application process for community members, founders, and organisations looking to host official Side Events during the conference week in San Francisco.
What Happened
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is scheduled to take place at Moscone West in San Francisco from October 13 to October 15. Alongside the main conference stages and workshops, official Side Events are scheduled to run across the city throughout the broader week of October 10 to October 16.
The application window for hosting an official Side Event is now open, with a final submission deadline set for September 4. Applying to host an event involves no application fee or licensing charges.
Key Highlights
- Event Window: Side Events will run from October 10 to October 16 across San Francisco, while the core Disrupt 2026 event takes place October 13–15 at Moscone West.
- Application Details: Submissions are free of cost and open until September 4.
- Host Responsibilities: Selected hosts are responsible for their own event logistics, including securing venues, managing budgets, handling attendee registrations, and conducting local promotion.
- Organiser Support: TechCrunch will feature approved events on its official Side Events directory, agenda, mobile application, attendee communications, and site coverage.
- Host Perks: Organisers of approved Side Events will receive exclusive promo discount codes on Disrupt passes to distribute within their networks.
- Format Flexibility: Accepted concepts can range widely, including founder mixers, workshops, panel discussions, morning runs, pitch sessions, and networking breakfasts.
Why This Matters
The Side Event initiative allows companies, community groups, and founders to associate directly with the Disrupt banner without purchasing traditional expo tables or sponsorship packages, though formal sponsorship and exhibition options remain available. In 2025, side gatherings drew from an audience of more than 10,000 founders, investors, and tech community members across the Bay Area.
What to Watch Next
Prospective hosts must finalise their concepts and submit their applications by the September 4 deadline. Questions regarding the program can be directed to the organisers via side.events@techcrunch.com. Additionally, promotional discounts of up to $400 on general Disrupt passes are available until 11:59 p.m. PT on Friday, August 7.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the deadline to apply for a Disrupt 2026 Side Event?
Applications to organise an official Side Event must be submitted by September 4.
Are there any application or licensing fees to host?
No, there are no licensing fees or costs required to submit an application to host an official Side Event.
What types of events are permitted?
Hosts have full ownership of their format, which can include casual meetups, networking brunches, panel discussions, pitch nights, workshops, or fitness activities.
Source: TechCrunch