Builders Stage agenda revealed: Practical strategies for scaling startups at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

The Builders Stage is set to return at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, uniting founders, startup operators, and investors for insightful discussions on scaling successful enterprises. Attendees will hear from influential figures in the startup and venture capital landscape, including Grant Lee, CEO and co-founder of Gamma, and Leah Solivan, founder and general partner at Precedent.vc. This year's agenda promises candid conversations and real-world case studies, where speakers will share valuable insights on critical areas such as fundraising, talent acquisition, go-to-market strategies, and operational choices essential for fostering startup growth. Join over 10,000 entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders at the Moscone Center in San Francisco from October 13-15. Register now to take advantage of early bird pricing, which offers up to $330 in savings before ticket costs increase. Building a startup is one challenge, but scaling it effectively is another. The Builders Stage is one of six specialized platforms at Disrupt 2026, specifically designed to guide founders through the complexities of growth—from securing funding and attracting top talent to crafting effective market strategies and transitioning from Seed to Series A funding. Each session is geared towards providing actionable strategies that attendees can implement right away, along with opportunities for direct engagement with speakers during live Q&A sessions. Among the sessions highlighted is "How to Win When You’re Not Building AI," featuring Shan Shan, an investment manager at Baillie Gifford, and others. This discussion will focus on the importance of core business fundamentals in a market heavily influenced by AI hype. Panelists will emphasize efficient growth, customer retention, revenue quality, and disciplined execution as keys to success. Another noteworthy session, "What Happens When OpenAI Ships Your Roadmap," will feature insights from Michel Tricot, CEO of Airbyt, among others. This talk will address the concerns of AI founders regarding competition from major players like OpenAI, exploring strategies for maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving landscape. Additionally, the agenda includes discussions on pre-seed fundraising, product scalability, the evolving role of AI in startup teams, and how mergers and acquisitions can play an early-stage strategy role. Founders will learn how to create compelling narratives that attract investment even before product development begins. With each session designed to tackle specific challenges faced by startups today, attendees will walk away with practical takeaways and insights tailored for the current market landscape. Secure your pass for TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 today to gain knowledge from industry leaders and enhance your startup's growth trajectory.