TechCrunch is inviting the community to apply to host Side Events during TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, which takes place from October 13-15 at Moscone West in San Francisco. Beyond the main conference, organizers are encouraging innovators, founders, investors, and industry leaders to create custom in-person gatherings between October 10 and 16 to engage deeper with Disrupt attendees. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, September 4, emphasizing urgency for interested parties to participate in this opportunity without any application fee.

Hosting a Side Event offers significant exposure by putting the host's brand front and center among tens of thousands of key tech figures. The benefits include fostering direct engagement with tech’s sharpest minds, building authentic business relationships, controlling the event narrative, and generating sustained buzz. Approved Side Events receive promotion through Disrupt’s official calendar and marketing channels, providing hosts a meaningful platform to showcase expertise and innovation.

TechCrunch encourages a wide range of event formats including industry roundtables, venture capital office hours, workshops, networking dinners, or casual happy hours, provided they are open to Disrupt attendees and the public. Evening events during the main conference days—October 13-15—are recommended to maximize attendance and engagement through heightened post-conference excitement and limited scheduling conflicts among attendees.

Applicants should secure a Bay Area venue and prepare event details such as a descriptive title and venue information before submitting their proposals through an online form. The organizers focus on supporting events that provide clear value to founders, investors, and startups. For additional questions, the Side Events team offers assistance via email, helping ensure hosts receive the logistical support and promotional exposure necessary to maximize their impact during Disrupt 2026.