TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield Now Offers Cash Prizes Without Equity Stakes

TechCrunch Disrupt's Startup Battlefield competition now awards $100,000 in cash with no equity stake required—a shift away from the traditional accelerator model. Glīd won the 2025 round under this structure. The change reflects founder demand for control and capital efficiency, especially since funding tightened in 2022–2023. Applications for 2026 close today, May 27.