TechCrunch offers $75 Disrupt passes to 100 laid-off professionals

TechCrunch is offering a limited number of discounted Expo+ Passes for $75 to individuals affected by layoffs for its Disrupt 2026 event in San Francisco. The passes provide access to networking opportunities and startup exhibits but exclude certain conference sessions.

Discounted passes for laid-off professionals

TechCrunch is offering a $75 Expo+ Pass to the first 100 individuals affected by layoffs for its Disrupt 2026 event in San Francisco. According to TechCrunch, the offer is valid until October 13 at 8 a.m. PT or until all passes are claimed.

The event, scheduled for October 13-15 at Moscone West, aims to provide networking and career opportunities for attendees. Over 10,000 founders, investors, operators, and tech leaders are expected to participate.

The Expo Hall will feature more than 300 startups, and attendees can use the TechCrunch Events app for AI-powered matchmaking to connect with relevant professionals.

What’s included and what’s not

The $75 Expo+ Pass grants access to the Expo Hall but does not include entry to industry stages or roundtable sessions. This pass is designed to facilitate networking and exploration of startup exhibits, rather than full conference participation.

Disrupt Week, running from October 10-16, will also include side events such as meetups and workshops, expanding opportunities for attendees to engage with the tech community.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

This initiative by TechCrunch is a practical response to the challenges faced by professionals affected by layoffs in the tech industry. For founders and operators, it’s a reminder of how industry events can serve dual purposes: networking and career recovery. While the Expo+ Pass doesn’t grant access to all sessions, it’s a low-cost way to tap into the startup ecosystem, meet potential co-founders, investors, or employers, and leverage AI-driven tools to maximize connections.

For those navigating career transitions, events like Disrupt can be a lifeline, but it’s worth noting that the real value lies in preparation—knowing who you want to meet and how to follow up. The limited-time offer also creates urgency, which could help some move faster in their job search or next venture.

Key takeaways

• TechCrunch is offering a $75 Expo+ Pass for the first 100 individuals affected by layoffs for Disrupt 2026.
• The offer expires on October 13 at 8 a.m. PT or when all passes are claimed.
• Disrupt 2026 will take place in San Francisco from October 13-15, with over 10,000 attendees expected.
• The Expo Hall will feature 300+ startups, and the TechCrunch Events app will facilitate AI-powered matchmaking.
• The Expo+ Pass does not include access to industry stages or roundtable sessions.

FAQ

Who qualifies for the $75 Expo+ Pass?

The offer is available to the first 100 individuals affected by layoffs who claim the pass. Proof of layoff may be required.

What does the Expo+ Pass include?

The pass grants access to the Expo Hall, featuring 300+ startups, and the TechCrunch Events app for AI-powered matchmaking. It does not include access to industry stages or roundtable sessions.

When and where is TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 taking place?

The event will be held at Moscone West in San Francisco from October 13-15, with Disrupt Week running from October 10-16.

Can I attend side events with the Expo+ Pass?

Yes, the pass may grant access to some side events during Disrupt Week, but check the event details for confirmation.

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