Applications to host a Side Event at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 close tonight at midnight PT, offering a unique opportunity to engage with thousands of tech leaders in San Francisco this October.
- Apply to host a Side Event before midnight PT tonight
- Event runs October 10–16 in San Francisco
- Side Events must be approved and are self-managed
What happened
TechCrunch has opened the final window for applications to host Side Events during its flagship Disrupt 2026 conference. Interested organizers have less than 24 hours to submit their proposals before the application period ends at midnight Pacific Time. TechCrunch Disrupt is scheduled for October 10 to 16 in San Francisco and attracts thousands of key players in the technology and startup ecosystem.
Side Events offer a valuable chance for startups, community leaders, and partners to lead additional programming parallel to the main conference. These can range from meetups and happy hours to panels and workshops, enabling hosts to create memorable experiences that resonate with Disrupt attendees. However, all Side Event applications undergo review and must be approved by the TechCrunch events team to be included officially.
Why it matters
Hosting a Side Event during TechCrunch Disrupt presents a unique branding and networking opportunity. With over 10,000 tech leaders expected to gather in the Bay Area, an approved Side Event can amplify a host’s visibility and influence within the vibrant Silicon Valley startup scene. It allows organizations to connect directly with an engaged audience before, during, and after the core conference days.
Furthermore, Side Event hosts control their own event logistics and costs, providing freedom to tailor content and formats that best serve their community or business objectives. This self-directed approach encourages innovation and diverse interactions, complementing the main programming and broadening the scope of engagement at Disrupt.
What to watch next
Applicants should expect to hear back from the TechCrunch events team following the submission deadline to confirm if their Side Event proposal has been accepted. Successfully approved events will be promoted as part of the official Side Events program, providing additional exposure to Disrupt attendees and media coverage.
Meanwhile, those not hosting Side Events can still participate by purchasing conference tickets ahead of a priced increase on September 25. Both options offer paths to engage with the global tech community as it explores themes such as sustainable building in the AI era and other cutting-edge topics throughout Disrupt 2026.