Curate Your Experience: Submit Your Proposal for a Side Event at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026!

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is set to take place at Moscone West in San Francisco from October 13 to 15. However, many engaging discussions will extend beyond the main stage and workshops, spilling into happy hours, rooftop gatherings, breakfast meetups, and pitch nights throughout the week of October 10 to 16.

Numerous events are part of the official Disrupt Side Events program. An exciting aspect of this initiative is the open opportunity it provides. If you have a compelling idea for an event and a space to host it, you can easily apply to be a host.

Here’s how it works: You create a concept for the event—whether it’s a founders’ mixer, a late-night panel, a themed party, or a morning jog—and the TechCrunch team assists in promoting it to the attendees already in town for Disrupt. There’s no application fee or licensing involved; just the most creative ideas contribute to enhancing the community experience in October. Start your application now!

What does it mean to host a Disrupt Side Event?

Here are a few essential details about our Side Event program:

• Side Events can occur during the week of October 10-16, with an application deadline of September 4.
• You have complete control over the format; whether it’s a cocktail gathering, a comprehensive workshop, or a relaxed networking brunch, the goal is to bring the community together.
• You handle the logistics, including the venue, budget, registrations, and some marketing. Ultimately, it’s your event operating under the Disrupt banner.
• TechCrunch will promote the event through our Side Events page, the official agenda, the event app, emails to attendees, and coverage on our website.

• Hosts receive a discount promo code for Disrupt passes that they can share within their networks.

For a more comprehensive overview of our Side Events, refer to the provided guide.

What types of events were held in 2025?

Last year’s events included exclusive penthouse mixers with leading cloud companies, founder pitch nights, local meetups, running clubs, and late-night discussions on AI. The variety of formats created a unique atmosphere, attracting over 10,000 founders, investors, and community members enjoying the Bay Area.

If you represent a community, have a product narrative to share, or just want an excuse to throw a party, this is the simplest way to associate your name with Disrupt without purchasing a table or sponsorship package.

That said, those options are also available, providing additional benefits through exhibit tables in the Expo Hall and various sponsorship opportunities.

Be sure to apply to host a Side Event by September 4! If you have any further questions, reach out to side.events@techcrunch.com. Regardless of whether you decide to host, we look forward to seeing you at Disrupt 2026.

If you’re still considering attending Disrupt, you can save up to $400 on your ticket with the current discount, which expires at 11:59 p.m. PT on Friday, August 7.