Scaling startups takes center stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where the Builders Stage returns to connect founders, startup operators, and investors for practical discussions on what it takes to build and grow successful companies. The programming targets founders who have moved past early ideation and are ready to expand.
Attendees will hear from startup and venture leaders shaping the tech ecosystem, including Grant Lee, CEO and co-founder of Gamma; Leah Solivan, founder and general partner at Precedent.vc; and Robby Stein, VP of Product at Google, among others. Through candid conversations and real-world case studies, speakers plan to share actionable insights on fundraising, hiring, go-to-market strategy, AI, and the operational decisions that drive startup growth.
The event runs October 13-15 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco and is expected to draw more than 10,000 founders, investors, startup operators, and technology leaders. Registering early can save attendees up to EUR 285 before the next ticket price increase.
Six Focused Stages, One Built for Growth
The Builders Stage is one of six industry-focused stages at Disrupt 2026, dedicated to helping founders navigate the demands of growth. Topics range from raising capital and recruiting top talent to constructing go-to-market engines and preparing for the transition from seed to Series A. Each session is designed to deliver strategies that founders can apply immediately, along with live Q&A opportunities to engage directly with speakers.
Additional speakers and sessions will be announced as the event approaches, but the initial agenda offers a preview of the discussions ahead.
A First Look at the Builders Stage Agenda
How to Win When You’re Not Building AI features Shan Shan, Investment Manager at Baillie Gifford, and Yuri Sagalov, Managing Director at General Catalyst. The session addresses founders competing for attention in an AI-obsessed market, focusing on efficient growth, retention, revenue quality, and disciplined execution rather than hype.
What Happens When OpenAI Ships Your Roadmap brings together Michel Tricot, CEO and co-founder of Airbyte; Rob Toews, Partner at Radical Ventures; and Linda Tong, CEO of Webflow. The panel examines a common concern among AI founders: the risk that a large player like OpenAI or Anthropic could launch a competing product, potentially reducing strong products to features. Speakers will explore where defensibility exists and how founders can respond to competition from fast-moving AI giants.
Building the Next Generation of AI Giants features Jas Khaira, Global Head of Blackstone N1. AI startups are scaling faster and requiring more capital than prior generations. Khaira will discuss what separates enduring companies from early momentum, how founders should approach capital as they grow, and what Blackstone looks for when backing category-defining businesses.
A fourth session, Competing for AI Talent: Pay, Equity, and Retention, is also on the agenda, with additional details to follow. Disrupt 2026 takes place October 13-15
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