Author: Neesha A. Tambe

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Top five mobility startups to showcase at TC Sessions: Mobility 2020

Tonight, 10 disruptive mobility companies pitched on the virtual TechCrunch stage for a spot at TC Sessions: Mobility 2020. Each company pitched for one minute followed by a Q&A with our expert panel of judges – Shahin Farshchi (Lux Capital), Natalia Quintero (Transit Tech Lab) and Rachel Holt (Construct Capital).

The judges heard each founder and then selected the top five companies to pitch on the main stage at Mobility 2020. These companies will speak on the same stage as Waymo COO – Tekedra Mawakana, Ike Robotics chief engineer and co-founder Nancy Sun, and more. The following startups made the cut:

BuuPass Kenya Limited
HyPoint
Le Car
Movel AI Pte Ltd
ONO (ONOMOTION GmbH)

Tune in to the main stage to hear an extended four-minute pitch highlighting the innovative technology these founders have create – making bold moves in mobility. To check out these startups and an action packed stage, get an all-access General Admission ticket for $195. Get premier gives you access to the main stage speakers, networking and a complementary Extra Crunch membership (worth $99).

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Announcing the TC Pitch-Off: Mobility startups

For the past two years, TechCrunch has brought together the best and brightest minds in mobility at for our TechCrunch Sessions: Mobility event. This year, we are adding a little extra twist. On October 5, the day before Mobility 2020, TC is hosting a pitch-off — which only ticket holders can access — highlighting disruptive startups in the mobility space. Startups from all over the world applied and only 10 made the cut.

Founders will pitch on the virtual TC Stage for one-minute followed by an intense Q&A with our judges. After all 10 companies have pitched, the illustrious set of judges – Shahin Farshchi (Lux Capital), Natalia Quintero (Transit Tech Lab), Rachel Holt (Construct Capital) – will select the top five companies that will go on to pitch at the main event on October 7 in front of investors, press and thousands of online viewers.

Check out the featured companies here:

Automotus
BuuPass Kenya Limited
DUCKT
fluctuo
HyPoint
Le Car
Movel AI Pte Ltd
ONO (ONOMOTION GmbH)
PreAct Technologies
Shelf.Network


To see the startups pitching on October 5, you can snag an exhibitor pass for just $25. It’ll get you access to the pitch-off, breakout sessions from Chargepoint and access to visit all of the early stage mobility startups in the expo for all the days of TC Sessions: Mobility. But if you really want to take it to the next level, get an all-access General Admission ticket for $195 that gives you access to the main stage speakers, networking and a complementary Extra Crunch membership (worth $99). But you’ll need to grab your tickets before Monday, October 5th when prices increase!

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Announcing the Startup Battlefield companies at TechCrunch Disrupt 2020

TechCrunch is thrilled to announce the 20 companies pitching in Startup Battlefield. Over the next five days, founders from around the world will be connecting in remotely to pitch live on the virtual TechCrunch Disrupt 2020 stage. Our most competitive batch to-date, startups will be vying for $100,000 in equity-free prize money, the attention of tier-1 investors and global press.

The competition is stiff. The selected startups have undergone a rigorous application process, with a 2% acceptance rate. This year’s batch is exceptional. From green engine design to social networking video tools, GIS construction management to central American banking platforms for women, adaptive Sub-Saharan African transportation to healthcare affordability , these companies make ground breaking innovations in their verticals. Startups featured run the gamut – water conserving vertical farming in India, screen-less interfaces, security tech, multi-lingual adaptive children’s learning toys, and even 3-D printed rocket fuel.

Teams have trained for weeks with the Startup Battlefield team to hone their pitches, polish their live demos, and strengthen their business launch strategy. Monday through Thursday, startups will pitch live for six minutes followed by a six minute Q&A session with our expert judges. On Friday, the finalist companies selected will pitch again for the final Startup Battlefield round – this time with a new set of judges.

Startup Battlefield starts on Monday, September 14th at 10:30am Pacific Time, with Startup Battlefield moderator and TechCrunch Senior Writer Anthony Ha. To watch the live stream simply log in to TechCrunch.com. You can also gain access to the full Disrupt 2020 experience here.

Let’s check out the companies:

Monday 

Session 1: 10:30am – 11:35am PT

Matidor, Clinic Price Check, Firehawk Aerospace, Satellite Vu, DaVinci Kitchen**

Tuesday

Session 2: 10:30am – 11:35am PT

SoloSuit, Tuverl, Latent AI, HacWare, Vibe**

Wednesday

Session 3: 10:30am – 11:35am PT

Jefa, Touchwood Labs, Rally.video, Luther AI, Kiri

Thursday

Session 3: 10:40am – 11:45am PT

Perigee, Urban Kisaan, Crover, ClearFlame Engines Technologies, Canix

Friday

Finals begin at 10:40am PT. Companies will be announced online Thursday night.

*As a part of Startup Alley, companies are eligible for the Wild Card. These are the companies selected for Wild Card and can compete in Startup Battlefield. They are selected only days before the event.

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Virtual Mobility startup pitch night applications open

TechCrunch is on the hunt to feature 10 early-stage mobility startups at our virtual TC Sessions: Mobility 2020 pitch night. The pitch-off event, originally set for May, will now be held October 5th – the evening before Mobility 2020. 

The top five companies from pitch night will take the stage at the main event with industry heavy hitters like  Boris Sofman of Waymo and Nancy Sun of Ike to Trucks VC’s Reilly Brennan. Now we are shining a light on game changing startups – hardware and software breaking the mobility mold. From battery advancements to mapping, fuel processing to micromobility, TechCrunch wants the next generation of mobility’s brightest on stage. The process is simple:

Apply. TechCrunch editorial will review every application and demo video submitted. Companies will be reviewed based on innovation, scope of impact, uniqueness of product idea and potential for exit – IPO or acquisition. Selected companies will get to pitch on stage, receive two complimentary event tickets, an hour training with the Startup Battlefield Editor and a spot in CrunchMatch: TC’s meeting matching program.

Pitch Part I. The top ten startups from around the world will be selected to pitch live to the TC audience on the virtual stage. After a private pitch coaching session, founders will have one minute to pitch, followed by a Q&A with our expert panel of investor and industry expert judges.

Pitch Part II. The top five companies from pitch night will get a prime slot to pitch and demo their product on the main stage at Mobility 2020 in front of thousands of TC viewers – press, industry leaders and VCs.

The deadline to apply is September 15th. Selections will occur on a rolling basis so get your application in ASAP!

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Only 12 hours left to apply for Startup Battlefield at Disrupt 2020

It’s now o’clock, founders. A mere 12 hours stands between you and a chance to compete in Startup Battlefield and launch your pre-Series A startup during Disrupt 2020 — in front of the world’s influential technorati.

You won’t find a bigger launching pad, and this window of extraordinary opportunity slams shut on June 26 at 11:59 pm (PT). Apply to Startup Battlefield right here, right now.

This year’s legendary pitch competition is virtual, but the benefits and opportunity that comes from competing are very real and often life changing — for all participants not just the ultimate winner. Let’s explore that a bit more.

The top prize — $100,000 equity free cash — will do wonders for your bottom line. The TechCrunch feature article – brings you into the league of legends. The Disrupt cup and the acclaim that comes with winning, well, who doesn’t love bragging rights? But it’s the huge exposure — on a global scale — to media, investors, potential customers and big tech players looking to acquire promising startups, that can take Battlefield competitors on a whole new trajectory.

Here’s a quick look at how Startup Battlefield works. We accept applications from founders of any background, geography and industry as long as your company is early stage, has an MVP with a tech component (software, hardware or platform) and hasn’t received much major media coverage.

Our editors screen every application and will choose only startups they feel possess that certain je ne sais quoi. The epic pitch-off takes place during Disrupt 2020, which runs from Sept. 14 – 18. Note: This opportunity is 100 percent free. TechCrunch does not charge any application or participation fees or take any equity.

You’ll receive six weeks of free pitch coaching from TC editors to whip you into prime fighting trim. Plus a virtual webinar series with industry experts. You’ll have just 6 minutes to pitch and demo to the judges — a panel of expert VCs, entrepreneurs and TechCrunch editors. Then you’ll answer their questions — and they’ll have plenty.

Founders who survive the first round move to the finals on the last day of Disrupt. It’s lather-rinse-repeat as you pitch to a fresh set of judges. Then it’s time for the big reveal: one startup takes the title, the Disrupt cup and the $100,000.

Have you clicked the application link yet? No? Here are more reasons to apply. If you earn a spot in the competition, you get a Disrupt Digital Pro pass and you get to exhibit to people around the world in Digital Startup Alley — for free.

You’ll network with CrunchMatch, our AI-powered platform, to set up virtual 1:1 meetings with investors, media, potential customers and the throngs of folks eager to meet a Battlefield competitor.

Need more perks? We got you covered.

  • A launch article featuring your startup on TechCrunch.com
  • Access to Leading Voices Webinars: Hear top industry minds share their strategies for adapting and thriving during and after the pandemic
  • A YouTube video promoted on TechCrunch.com
  • Free subscription to Extra Crunch
  • Free passes to future TechCrunch events

This no-cost, perk-packed opportunity disappears in just 12 hours. Do whatever it takes to keep your startup moving forward. Apply to compete in Startup Battlefield before the deadline expires on June 26 at 11:59 pm (PT).

Is your company interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at Disrupt 2020? Contact our sponsorship sales team by filling out this form.

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Startup Battlefield bonus: Application deadline extended one week

This one goes out to all the early-stage startup founders. Whether you’re overwhelmed by the state of the world, overworked — or procrastination is simply an intrinsic part of your DNA — it matters not. Here’s reason to smile. We’re giving you an extra week to apply to compete in Startup Battlefield during Disrupt 2020. Fill out your application before the new deadline expires on June 26 at 11:59 pm (PT).

This is your moment to grab a double fistful of opportunity and step into a global spotlight. The virtual Disrupt 2020 represents our largest viewing audience and our biggest launch platform ever — more investors, more media and more, well, everything. If you’re chosen to compete in our premier pitch-off, you’ll go up against some of the best early-stage startups around the world.

Here’s what’s at stake: Massive exposure that can — whether you win the battle or not — change the trajectory of your startup, a launch article on TC.com, a 6 week mini-training program with TC editorial, all the perks of a Digital Disrupt Digital Pro pass (and then some) and a shot at $100,000, the Disrupt cup and all the bragging rights.

You’re eligible to apply if your company is early stage, has an MVP with a tech component (software, hardware or platform) and hasn’t received much, if any, major media coverage. Note: TechCrunch does not charge any application or participation fees or take any equity. We accept founders from all backgrounds, geographies and industries.

Veteran TechCrunch Battlefield editors (such a picky bunch) review every application and select startups that meet their discerning standards for innovation and growth potential. The virtual competition takes place during Disrupt 2020, which runs from Sept. 14 – 18.

Feel that flop sweat building up? Don’t stress. All competing founders receive weeks of free expert coaching from TechCrunch. Your pitch, demo and business model will shine like never before on game day.

Startup Battlefield consists of two rounds. Each team has six minutes to pitch and demo to our panel of TC editors, expert VCs and top entrepreneurs. Each team also faces a six-minute Q&A. Out of the original cohort, a handful of teams will move to the finals — on the last day of Disrupt — and pitch again to a new set of judges. They’ll choose one team to take home the title, the cup and the $100,000 prize.

Let’s take a peek at what other opportunities Battlefield competitors enjoy.

  • Exhibit in Digital Startup Alley and demo your product to hundreds of people
  • Network with CrunchMatch, our AI-powered platform. Use it to set up virtual 1:1 meetings with investors, media, potential customers or any other startup influencers
  • Exclusive access to Leading Voices Webinars: Hear top industry minds share their strategies for adapting and thriving during and after the pandemic
  • A launch article featuring your startup on TechCrunch.com
  • A YouTube video promoted on TechCrunch.com
  • Free subscription to Extra Crunch
  • Free passes to future TechCrunch events

You’ll also join the likes of Vurb, Dropbox, GetAround, Mint, Yammer, Fitbit and other members of the Startup Battlefield Alumni community. This impressive group, comprised (so far) of 902 companies, has collectively raised $9 billion and generated 115 exits.

Rejoice, you have one extra week to apply to compete in Startup Battlefield at Disrupt 2020. The new deadline expires on June 26 at 11:59 pm (PT). Don’t wait another minute. Make the most of this extended opportunity.

Is your company interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at Disrupt 2020? Contact our sponsorship sales team by filling out this form.

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Stand out from the crowd: Apply to TC Top Picks at Disrupt 2020

This is one [expletive deleted] tough time to be an early-stage startup founder. But giving up simply isn’t part of startup DNA. Instead, it’s time to do whatever it takes to catch the eyes and imagination of investors, media and other tech and business influencers. Here’s an easy way to begin. Apply to be a TC Top Pick at virtual Disrupt 2020.

What’s a TC Top Pick? It’s an early-stage startup that passed rigorous scrutiny by TechCrunch editors with an eye for innovation and potential. The fortunate few to earn that designation win a free Digital Startup Alley Package, tons of exposure to investors and media, plus a bunch of other bennies designed to help you survive and thrive — even in tough times.

Here’s how it works. You’re eligible to apply if your pre-Series A startup falls into one of the following categories.

Social Impact + Education, Space, Artificial Intelligence + Machine Learning, Biotech + Healthtech, Enterprise + SaaS, Fintech, Mobility, Retail + E-commerce, Robotics, Hardware + IOT, and Security + Privacy.

TechCrunch editors will choose up to three startups in each category. Each Top Pick receives a Digital Startup Package, which lets three people exhibit from anywhere in the world. And since everyone wants to know who made the grade as a Top Pick, you can expect lots of requests for 1:1 virtual demos and video meetings with investors, media, potential customers, folks interested in collaborating — you name it. And you’ll have months to pitch and network.

Here’s another giant advantage: TechCrunch will conduct a virtual video interview for each Top Pick startup and promote the videos across our social media platforms — driving traffic to your website. Your video will make an excellent conversation starter and long-term marketing tool.

We’re not done with all the Startup Alley exhibitor perks and opportunities. You get exclusive access to the Leading Voices Webinar series. You’ll hear the brightest industry minds discuss ways to adapt during and after this pandemic.

All that networking will be a lot easier and more efficient with CrunchMatch, TechCrunch’s AI-powered networking platform. It helps you find and connect with like-minded investors, founders and other startup influencers. Save time by networking only with people who can move your business forward.

Pour yourself something tasty, join the Pitchers and Pitches webinars and fine-tune your pitch with the TechCrunch editorial team that coaches the Startup Battlefield competitors.

Don’t let hard times drive your dream into a ditch. Do what it takes to place your startup in front of the influencers who can help you succeed. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Keep moving forward and apply to the TC Top Picks program.

Is your company interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at Disrupt 2020? Contact our sponsorship sales team by filling out this form.

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Startup Battlefield is going virtual with TechCrunch Disrupt 2020

You read that right. The big announcement came yesterday – TechCrunch Disrupt is now fully virtual. What does this mean for Startup Battlefield? More opportunity. The best companies from across the globe, an even bigger launch platform, the eyes of more investors from around the world and press exposure at the biggest conference TechCrunch has held to-date. The conference will be available globally, spanning 5 days – September 14-18. Founders. This. Is. Your. Shot. Applications will close June 19th, so get your app in ASAP.

Successful startup founders face challenging circumstances with determination and persistence — and they grab hold of every opportunity to pave a path forward. Are you ready to pave your path? And a chance to win the $100,000 equity-free prize and the Disrupt Cup?

The virtual Startup Battlefield works much like last year’s onsite battle, but with a few twists and added benefits.

Apply. You’re eligible — no matter where you are around the world — if your company meets these criteria: it’s early stage; you have an MVP that includes a tech component (software, hardware or platform); your company has not received much, if any, major media coverage. Here’s good news: it won’t cost you a thing to apply or participate in the Battlefield. And TechCrunch does not take any equity.

The TechCrunch editorial team will review every application looking for innovative, game-changing startups from verticals spanning the tech spectrum. They’ll select a cadre of startups to compete virtually in front of influencers who have to power to change the course of your business.

Prepare for battle. All competing teams go through a free weeks-long training with TechCrunch team. That coaching will whip your pitch into fighting trim, cut the fat from your business models, sharpen your presentation skills and fine-tune your demo. You’ll also hear from industry experts on developing various aspects of your business – from go-to-market strategy to executive communications.

Compete. When game day arrives, each team presents a 6-minute pitch to a bevy of judges consisting of top VCs and technologists. An intense Q&A follows each presentation, but with all that coaching under your belt you won’t break a sweat. The judges will select teams to move into the finals — and those founders will pitch yet again to a fresh panel of judges on the final day of the virtual conference.

From that impressive lot, the judges will choose one stellar startup to claim the Disrupt Cup and the $100,000 prize. The whole event takes place online in front of a huge global audience — they can watch all the action with a free Disrupt  Digital pass.

Network and grow your business. Although only one startup wins the cash, all Startup Battlefield competitors gain invaluable exposure to investors, media and potential customers — and they join the ranks of the Startup Battlefield Alumni. That impressive cohort has collectively raised $9 billion and generated 115 exits. We’re talking companies like Vurb, Dropbox, GetAround, Mint, Yammer, Fitbit and many more. Talk about prime networking.

Startup Battlefield competitors also get to exhibit in Digital Startup Alley and enjoy these added benefits:

  • Leading Voices Webinars: Top industry minds will share their thoughts and strategies on adapting and thriving during and after this pandemic. Startup Alley exhibitors get exclusive access to this webinar series.
  • A launch article posted on TechCrunch.com
  • A YouTube video promoted on TechCrunch.com
  • Free subscription to Extra Crunch
  • Free passes to future TechCrunch events

Plus, you’ll receive loads of press and investor attention and use of CrunchMatch, our AI-powered networking platform, to set up virtual meetings. Keep checking back because we’re not quite finished adding extra perks.

You’re determined. You’re persistent. Apply to compete in Startup Battlefield at Disrupt 2020 for an opportunity to pave your path to success.

Is your company interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at Disrupt 2020? Contact our sponsorship sales team by filling out this form.

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Apply to compete in Startup Battlefield at Disrupt SF 2020

Disrupt San Francisco 2020, the OG of startup tech conferences, takes place at Moscone West on Sept. 14 – 16. It’s an event you don’t want to miss, and we’re here to tell early-stage founders one of the best ways to get the most out of the Disrupt experience. Apply to compete in Startup Battlefield for a shot the coveted Disrupt Cup and the even more coveted $100,000 prize.

Let’s pause here for an improtant messaage. We know COVID-19 has created many challenges, but Disrupt SF is still on schedule (keep tabs on our updates here). Like startup founders everywhere, we quickly learn where, when and how to pivot. Case in point, check out our new Disrupt Digital Pass option.

This epic pitch competition is the stuff of Silicon Valley legend. Cloudflare, Mint.com, Dropbox, Vurb, Get Around — these are just some of the many companies that competed in Startup Battlefield. Here’s how it all works.

First things first. Applying, training and competing is 100 percent free. TechCrunch charges no fees and does not take any equity. Who can apply to compete in Startup Battlefield? Excellent question. You can apply — regardless of location or industry — if your startup clears these low bars.

  • Your startup must be early stage
  • You have an MVP with a tech component — software, hardware or platform
  • You’ve received little to no major media coverage

TechCrunch editors closely vet every application and will choose roughly 20 of the most innovative startups. If you make the cut, your team will receive several weeks of intense training with our Startup Battlefield team. You’ll fine-tune your pitch, business model and live demo. No need to stress — you’ll be thoroughly prepped to impress.

On the big day, you’ll step onto the Disrupt Main Stage in front of thousands of influential attendees, investors and global media. Plus, we live-stream the event to the world on TechCrunch.com. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more enthusiastic audience or a better launch pad for your startup.

Teams have just six minutes to pitch and demo to a panel of expert judges (highly regarded VCs and technologists). Judges follow up each pitch with a probing Q&A. Only four to six startups will make it to the finals for another round of pitch, demo and grill in front of a new set of judges.

From that elite set of finalists, one startup will emerge to win the Disrupt Cup, the $100,000 equity-free prize and massive media exposure and investor attention. Buckle up, because it can be a life-changing experience.

But keep this in mind — all Startup Battlefield competitors reap the benefits of standing in that bright media and investor spotlight. They also become part of the Startup Battlefield Alumni Community. These elite companies have collectively raised $9 billion and produced more than 115 successful exits (IPOs or acquisitions). Imagine the networking possibilities.

Disrupt San Francisco 2020 takes place on Sept. 14 – 16. Don’t miss your shot to launch your startup in a big, big way. Apply to compete in Startup Battlefield today. Come and show the world what you’ve got!

Is your company interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at Disrupt San Francisco 2020? Contact our sponsorship sales team by filling out this form.

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Apply today to be a TC Top Pick at Disrupt SF 2020

Opportunity’s a hot currency, and every early-stage startup founder’s on the lookout for it. Anything and everything that can help bring the dream to fruition, right? You’ll find three days packed with opportunity at TechCrunch Disrupt San Francisco 2020 on September 14-16. Care to know how you can super-size your Disrupt opportunity?

We’ll get to that in a minute, but first an important note. We know COVID-19 has created challenges, but Disrupt SF is still on schedule (keep tabs on our updates here). Like startup founders everywhere, we quickly learn where, when and how to pivot. Case in point, check out our new Disrupt Digital Pass option.

Apply to be a TC Top Pick. If you’re selected, you’ll receive a VIP experience that includes, among other awesome perks, a free Startup Alley Exhibitor Package. Yup, one full day exhibiting your startup to thousands of attendees including eager investors, tech journalists, potential customers, partners and a host of experts across the startup spectrum. You never know where the connections you make as a TC Top Pick will take you.

Here’s how our Top Picks program works. Applying won’t cost you a thing, and it’s a simple process. Earning the coveted TC Top Pick designation is much more difficult. TechCrunch editors have a keen eye for spotting success potential, and they’ll review every application. They’re searching for the very best startups that fall into the following categories:

Artificial Intelligence + Machine Learning, Biotech + Healthtech, Enterprise + SaaS, Fintech, Mobility, Retail + E-commerce, Robotics, Hardware + IOT, Security + Privacy, Social Impact + Education, and Space.

Ultimately, they’ll choose up to three startups to represent each category. That means if they determine only two startups meet their exacting standards, they won’t pick a third just to fill out a category.

The Top Picks cohort exhibits in a dedicated space within Startup Alley. It’s prime real estate to showcase your tech and talent in a big way. But don’t just take our word for it. Listen to what this founder had to say about this aspect of his Top Pick experience.

“Top Picks is a valuable platform. The dedicated exhibit area draws lots of people who want to see which startups were selected and what they offer. We got great exposure and spoke to lots of end users, potential customers, investors and even large organizations interested in our technology.” — Joel Neidig, founder of SIMBA Chain.

Top Pick designees also receive three complimentary Founder passes to Disrupt SF 2020. That gives you and yours more opportunity to network, attend presentations and experience our epic pitch competition, Startup Battlefield.

Perhaps one of the best opportunities associated with the Top Picks program offers lasting benefits long after the conference ends. A TechCrunch editor interviews every TC Top Pick — live on the Showcase Stage in Startup Alley. We record the interview, edit the video and promote it across our social media platforms. It drives traffic to your website, and it’s yours to use as a long-term marketing tool.

If you’re not in a competitive mood and simply want to attend Disrupt SF 2020, be sure to buy your early bird ticket now and, depending on the pass you buy, save up to $1,800.

TechCrunch Disrupt San Francisco 2020 takes place on September 14-16. Wring every ounce of opportunity out of your Disrupt experience and apply to be a TC Top Pick today. We can’t wait to see what you’ve got!

TechCrunch is mindful of the COVID-19 issue and its impact on live events. You can follow our updates here.

Is your company interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at Disrupt San Francisco 2020? Contact our sponsorship sales team by filling out this form.