TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 Opens in San Francisco, Convening 10,000 Innovators

San Francisco, CA – TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 officially began today at Moscone West, bringing together approximately 10,000 founders, investors, and developers for a multi-day program centered on emerging technologies and startup growth. The event, scheduled from October 27-29, 2025, features a comprehensive agenda of demonstrations, pitch competitions, and discussions across various technology sectors. A central element of the conference is the Startup Battlefield, where 20 early-stage startups compete for a $100,000 equity-free prize and the Disrupt Cup. This year's event also highlights the "AI Disruptors 60," an initiative recognizing companies at the forefront of artificial intelligence innovation. Over 300 exhibiting startups are showcasing new technologies in the Expo Hall, with doors open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, according to event organizers. Sessions across multiple stages, including the Disrupt Stage, Space Stage, Going Public Stage, and Builders Stage, address topics ranging from space technology and scaling strategies to the frameworks for initial public offerings. The opening day's Disrupt Stage programming featured Tekedra Mawakana of Waymo discussing "The Self-Driving Reality Check" and Roelof Botha from Sequoia Capital on "What Sequoia Sees Coming Next." Astro Teller of The Moonshot Factory also delivered a session on "Moonshots, AI, and the Future of Alphabet." Discussions on the industrial impact of technology were prominent. On the Space Stage, William Bruey of Varda Space Industries presented on "Varda's Plan to Build the Next Great Supply Chain," while panels explored "AI at the Edge: Startups Powering the Future of Space" and "Laying the Groundwork for a New Space Economy." The Builders Stage featured sessions such as "Flying into the Future: AI Is Fueling Aviation" and "Building a GTM Engine that Actually Works," with contributions from Google DeepMind's Tulsee Dosah and Google Cloud's Darren Mowry. Austin Yount from Brick & Mortar Ventures contributed to a Builders Stage discussion on the "Future of Construction: The Role of AI and Data in the Field and the Office." Roundtable discussions additionally covered "Physical AI: Designing, Funding, and Scaling the Future" and "Future of Space Economy in the Low Earth Orbit." Additional programming included the Pitch Showcase Stage, featuring Startup Battlefield 200 presentations focused on sustainability and built-world solutions. Attendees have access to various networking opportunities, including the Braindate Networking Lounge and the Deal Flow Cafe, alongside numerous company-hosted side events throughout San Francisco designed to foster connections among industry participants. TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 aims to serve as a platform for the articulation of new ideas and the forging of partnerships that could shape future technological and industrial landscapes.