TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Side Event applications are closing fast, with less than 24 hours remaining for organizers who want to host their own gathering during the conference. The deadline lands tonight at midnight PT, marking the final window to secure a spot in the official program.
Disrupt draws thousands of founders, investors, partners, and technology leaders to San Francisco. Side Events run throughout the broader Disrupt week, scheduled for October 10 through 16, and give brands an additional way to connect with that audience before, during, and after the main conference.
What a Side Event Offers
Organizers have flexibility in how they design their event. Options include hosting a meetup, gathering tech leaders for a happy hour, or leading a panel or workshop. The format is left to the host.
An approved Side Event reaches the wider Disrupt community, connecting attendees with founders, investors, partners, and innovators across the ecosystem. Hosts also extend their presence beyond the conference floor during Disrupt week.
Additional visibility comes directly from TechCrunch. Approved events are featured on the official Side Events page, the agenda, the mobile app, attendee emails, a dedicated article, and social channels. Hosts also receive a 25% ticket discount to share with their network, giving their community another reason to attend.
How the Approval Process Works
Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance. Every submission is reviewed by the TechCrunch events team, and an event must be approved before it can appear in the official Side Events program. Hosts are responsible for all logistics and associated costs.
The opportunity is aimed at brands looking to expand their reach at one of the year’s most anticipated technology conferences, where more than 10,000 tech leaders are expected to gather in the Bay Area.
Attending Without Hosting
Those who prefer not to host but still want to take part in the event can secure a ticket instead. A discount of up to EUR 172 is available before rates increase on September 25.
Coverage areas at Disrupt span AI, apps, biotech and health, fintech, fundraising, media and entertainment, robotics, startups, and venture. Side Event applications close today at midnight PT.
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Image: techcrunch.com
