Every startup has a moment that changes everything.
For some, it’s landing their first customer. For others, it’s closing their first funding round.
If you’re going to apply for Startup Battlefield Australia, now is the time. Applications close July 6, and once the deadline passes, the opportunity is gone.
If you’re an early-stage startup in Australia or New Zealand, this opportunity was built for you.
Startup Battlefield exists to discover the next breakout company before everyone else does.
On August 19, 2026, eight selected startups will take the stage live at Stripe Tour Sydney in front of leading investors, global media, and Australia’s technology community.
The top three startups will receive up to $15,000 in Stripe fee credits.
The winner receives automatic entry into Startup Battlefield 200 at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 — one of the world’s most prestigious startup competitions — in San Francisco this October.
When the deadline passes, there are no extensions, no second chances, and no late submissions.
If you’ve been thinking about applying, don’t spend another day wondering, “What if?”
Submit your application now and give your startup the opportunity to become the next company everyone is talking about.
Don’t let this opportunity become the one that got away.
Free to apply • No equity taken • Live in Sydney on August 19, 2026.
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Isabelle Johannessen Head of the Startup Battlefield Program
Isabelle leads Startup Battlefield, TechCrunch’s iconic launchpad and competition for the world’s most promising early-stage startups.
You can contact or verify outreach from Isabelle by emailing [email protected].
She scouts top founders across 99+ countries and prepares them to pitch on the Disrupt stage in front of tier-one investors and global media. Before TechCrunch, she designed and led international startup acceleration programs across Japan, Korea, Italy, and Spain—connecting global founders with VCs and helping them successfully enter the U.S. market. With a Master’s in Entrepreneurship & Disruptive Innovation—and a past life as a professional singer—she brings a blend of strategic rigor and stage presence to help founders craft compelling stories and stand out in crowded markets.
November 4 Boston Last chance to save up to $190 on TechCrunch Founder Summit. Join 1,000+ founders and VCs at all stages for real-world scaling insights and connections that move the needle. Savings end June 26, 11:59 p.m. PT.
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