TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: A Recap of the Startup Battlefield 200

In a year filled with remarkable talent and groundbreaking ideas, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 shone the spotlight on the exceptional startups that formed the 2025 Startup Battlefield 200 cohort.

After sifting through thousands of applications, 200 promising startups were handpicked, each bringing a unique innovation to their respective industries. The culmination of this selection process led to an electrifying three-day event where these startups had the chance to pitch and showcase their solutions live.

From the cream of the crop, the top 20 finalists emerged, with TechCrunch editorial ultimately choosing the top five companies to battle it out for the coveted $100,000 equity-free prize money and the prestigious Disrupt Cup. The well-deserved victory went to Glīd, closely followed by the strong contender Nephrogen.

Among the Startup Battlefield 200 participants were numerous industry-defining companies that exhibited and pitched their ideas on the Showcase Stage. Here are some standout examples:

Best Showcase Stage Pitch by Industry Group

Sustainability

HomeBoost stands out with its AI-powered home energy assessments, offering savings, carbon footprint reduction, and enhanced comfort.

Built World

Investwise is dedicated to developing AI-driven compliance solutions for commercial buildings.

Consumer

Rax is revolutionizing luxury fashion accessibility through a two-sided marketplace.

Enterprise

Cashew Research excels in delivering quick and affordable expert customer insights using AI-powered research.

Health

AWEAR has introduced an ear-worn EEG device with an AI coach for brainwave tracking and stress management.

Policy + Protection

JustiGuide is simplifying the complexities of immigration into a seamless infrastructure.

Best Booth — It’s a Tie!

Billight showcased innovation by bringing a light-up pool gaming system attached to their pop-up banner, creating a buzz in the Expo Hall.

Calificadas from Argentina captivated audiences with their vibrant booth showcasing an AI-powered communication intelligence coach in an interactive manner.

Spirit of Disrupt Award

The Spirit of Disrupt award rightfully went to Manu Seve, co-founder and CEO of Sponstar, for her exceptional efforts in creating exposure, connections, and opportunities for fellow founders through an engaging treasure hunt leading up to the event.

More than just a pitch competition, the Startup Battlefield serves as a platform for building relationships with investors, customers, and peers to support one another on their entrepreneurial journeys.

Celebrating the accomplishments of this year’s winners, we eagerly anticipate how they will shape their industries and drive innovation in the future. Congratulations to all the participants of the Startup Battlefield 200, and a special thank you to our judges and sponsors for their unwavering support in making TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 a remarkable success.