TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026: Everything you need to know

TechCrunch Founder Summit returns as a single-day, founder-centric gathering on November 4, 2026, at the SoWa Power Station in Boston. Designed for entrepreneurs at all stages, the event emphasizes practical, tactical guidance across the core mechanics of building a company, including fundraising, hiring, legal, marketing, PR and leadership. Organizers present the Summit as a smaller, more hands-on alternative to TechCrunch’s larger Disrupt conference. The program centers on timely themes such as raising capital in the current market, building companies with AI as a foundational element, and leadership transitions as startups scale. Featured sessions include presentations and panels led by speakers such as Brian Devaney (Underscore) on what investors are looking for today; Brian Halligan (HubSpot co-founder, Sequoia partner) on how the CEO role evolves; Lior Div (7AI) on building AI-native businesses; and Melissa Taunton (NEA) on early hiring choices that shape company culture. Beyond the main-stage talks, the Summit offers breakout sessions for deeper discussion and networking facilitated through the Braindate app to connect founders and investors or peers facing similar challenges. TechCrunch also runs a week of Side Events from November 1–7 to expand community programming, and volunteers can apply for complimentary access in exchange for staffing support (volunteer applications close October 19). Ticketing follows phased pricing with a stated increase after October 16; current rates listed are $399 for investors, $199 for founders and $149 for students. Discounts include 50% off a second ticket for a co-founder or coworker and additional group bundles for four or more. TechCrunch notes that links in its coverage may earn a small commission but says this does not affect editorial independence.