TechCrunch Disrupt 2026: The Builders Stage Returns for Founders and Investors
The Builders Stage is set to make a significant impact at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where founders, startup operators, and investors will gather for invaluable discussions on building and scaling successful companies. This year’s event promises to offer practical insights that can transform startup journeys into successful ventures.
Notable speakers include influential figures like Grant Lee, CEO and co-founder of Gamma; Leah Solivan, founder and general partner at Precedent.vc; and Robby Stein, VP of Product at Google. Attendees will gain direct access to candid conversations, real-world case studies, and actionable advice on critical topics such as fundraising, hiring strategies, go-to-market tactics, and the operational decisions essential for startup growth.
Mark your calendars for October 13-15 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, where over 10,000 individuals from the startup ecosystem are expected to converge. Register today to secure your spot and save on ticket prices before the next increase!
Focus on Founders Ready to Scale
Building a startup is a major feat, but scaling a company presents entirely different challenges. The Builders Stage, featuring one of six industry-specific segments at Disrupt 2026, is dedicated to equipping founders with the tools needed for navigating growth challenges, including capital acquisition, talent recruitment, and crafting effective go-to-market strategies.
Every session promises practical strategies that can be implemented immediately, along with live Q&A opportunities to interact with speakers. Secure your pass for Disrupt 2026 today to save up to $330 before prices go up!
As the event approaches, the full agenda for the Builders Stage is being revealed, with more sessions and speakers yet to be announced.
Exclusive Builders Stage Agenda Highlights
How to Win When You’re Not Building AI
In this session, Shan Shan, Investment Manager at Baillie Gifford, and Yuri Sagalov, Managing Director at General Catalyst, will discuss how founders can thrive in an AI-obsessed market without resorting to AI solutions. They will focus on the importance of sustainable growth, customer retention, and disciplined execution.
What Happens When OpenAI Ships Your Roadmap
This session, featuring Michel Tricot, CEO and Co-founder of Airbyte, and others, will explore the competitive landscape in which AI founders find themselves. What strategies can help in the face of potential competition from AI giants like OpenAI? This conversation is critical for understanding how to maintain defensibility.
Building the Next Generation of AI Giants
Join Jas Khaira, Global Head at Blackstone N1, as he highlights what distinguishes enduring companies from fleeting trends in the AI space. The discussion will cover essential funding strategies during scaling phases.
Competing for AI Talent: Pay, Equity, and Retention
As AI startups proliferate, attracting and retaining talent has become challenging for all tech firms. Matt Birnbaum, Founder of Wylder.co, joins industry leaders to examine how companies are modifying their compensation approaches to attract top talent in a rapidly evolving market.
Winning Pre-Seed Without a Product
With insights from Puneet Agarwal, Managing Partner at True Ventures, this session will help founders learn how to secure pre-seed capital even before launching a product, focusing on credibility and founder-market fit.
Concluding Thoughts: Gear Up for Disrupt 2026
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 promises to be an enlightening experience for anyone looking to make an impact in the startup ecosystem. If you’re eager to learn from the brightest minds in the industry and connect with fellow entrepreneurs, don’t miss out on securing your ticket to this transformative event.
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