TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield is set to arrive in Australia, collaborating with Stripe to identify the nation’s most promising early-stage startups. On August 19, eight Australian startups will present live pitches at Stripe Tour Sydney to an audience comprising investors, media, and tech enthusiasts. Three startups will be awarded prizes, with one securing a direct entry to TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 in San Francisco from October 13-15.
The key to discovering the next standout entrepreneur? The judges.
Startup Battlefield has a proven history, having launched over 1,700 companies around the globe, including notable names like Dropbox, Cloudflare, Discord, and Trello. Participants have collectively attracted $32 billion in funding and achieved more than 250 exits. The last Startup Battlefield event in Sydney saw HealthMatch emerge as the winner and is now valued at over $25 million, serving a million patients worldwide.
Such achievements don’t occur by mere chance; they stem from having the right individuals present—those capable of recognizing potential, posing challenging questions, and providing opportunities for the founders. This year, we have gathered three judges who exemplify the top tier of Australia’s startup landscape and global fintech trends.
Introducing the Judges
Jasmine Liew, Head of Startup & Investor Partnerships for APAC, Stripe
Not only does Stripe sponsor Startup Battlefield, but it is also actively involved in the startup ecosystem. Jasmine Liew provides essential insights into scaling globally and understanding the payment solutions that drive contemporary commerce. Founders pitching before her will be presenting to someone who grasps both the overarching vision and the practical aspects of transforming that vision into a profitable enterprise.
Brendan Hill, Angel Investor and Venture Partner, Ten13
Brendan Hill embodies the investor demographic that actively funds projects. As a venture partner and angel investor, he assesses concepts not just on their merit but also on whether he is willing to invest his own funds in the team. This perspective is critical for founders aiming to secure their next funding rounds.
Jarron Aizen, Founder and CEO, Hapana
As a founder, Jarron Aizen understands the pressures and challenges of pitching. He has navigated the journey from concept to company, providing him with a valuable viewpoint. His questions during the judging process will reflect the experiences and challenges he has faced while operating in the Australian market.
Prize Details
The top prize includes $15,000 in Stripe fee credits—an impactful financial resource for growth—along with guaranteed entry into Startup Battlefield 200 at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026. This opportunity isn’t merely a prize; it’s a launching pad. The second and third place winners will receive $5,000 and $2,000 in Stripe credits respectively. Crucially, every finalist will gain exposure to these judges, media attention, and access to the Stripe Tour Sydney audience of entrepreneurs, operators, and investors.
Mark Your Calendars for August 19
If you are an investor, a founder not yet ready to pitch, or simply interested in witnessing the evolution of Australian startups, Stripe Tour Sydney on August 19 is the event to attend. Make sure to sign up.
The preparations are underway. The judges are poised. The burning question is: Which startup will come out on top?
Event hosted and moderated by Isabelle Johannessen, Director of Startup Battlefield.
