From AI to Sustainability, TechCrunch’s Premier Startup Showcase Highlights Global Disruption Across Industries

The TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 Startup Battlefield 200 delivered a thrilling display of innovation and entrepreneurial energy this year, spotlighting the most promising startups shaping the future of technology and business. From thousands of applications worldwide, 200 exceptional startups were chosen to participate in the event — each representing a bold leap in solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Over the course of three days, founders took the stage in San Francisco to pitch their solutions before investors, industry leaders, and media, culminating in a high-stakes finale that crowned Glīd as the winner of the $100,000 equity-free prize and the coveted Disrupt Cup. Close behind, Nephrogen earned runner-up honors for its pioneering advancements in biotechnology.

Beyond the competition, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 reaffirmed its reputation as a launchpad for breakthrough startups, celebrating innovation that spans sustainability, health tech, AI-driven enterprise tools, and next-generation consumer experiences.

Innovation Front and Center: Industry Leaders of the Showcase Stage

This year’s Showcase Stage served as a window into the future, with startups unveiling technologies that challenge convention and reimagine everyday life.

In Sustainability, HomeBoost earned recognition for its AI-powered home energy assessments, which help consumers cut costs, reduce emissions, and enhance comfort — a timely innovation amid rising global energy concerns.

In the Built World category, Investwise impressed with its AI-driven compliance platform for commercial buildings, a solution that promises to streamline safety and regulatory oversight in real estate management.

Rax, which seeks to democratize luxury fashion through a two-sided marketplace, stood out in the Consumer category, highlighting the rise of circular fashion and tech-enabled resale ecosystems.

In Enterprise technology, Cashew Research captured attention with its AI-powered customer insights platform, offering fast and affordable data for businesses aiming to better understand their markets.

Meanwhile, in Health, AWEAR showcased an ear-worn EEG with an AI coach, advancing neurotechnology for real-time brainwave tracking and stress management. The Policy + Protection category featured JustiGuide, a company simplifying immigration processes through digital infrastructure — a standout in a sector long mired in bureaucracy.

Recognizing Creativity and Community at Disrupt 2025

The Spirit of Disrupt Award went to Manu Seve, co-founder and CEO of Sponstar, whose creativity and community engagement captured the ethos of TechCrunch Disrupt. Seve organized a multi-week treasure hunt leading up to the event, connecting over 30 startups and hundreds of participants. The initiative generated 200 qualified leads, 700+ location visits, and 50 prizes awarded across eight companies — a grassroots demonstration of collaboration and innovation in action.

The Best Booth Award resulted in a tie, recognizing startups that embodied exceptional creativity, user engagement, and branding excellence throughout the conference.

Outlook: A Platform for the Next Generation of Disruptors

More than a pitch competition, the Startup Battlefield is a network for growth — a space where founders forge partnerships, attract investors, and refine their visions. The 2025 cohort underscored how AI, sustainability, and human-centric design are converging to redefine industries from healthcare to finance.

As TechCrunch celebrates this year’s champions, attention now turns to what lies ahead for these rising innovators. For Glīd, Nephrogen, and their fellow participants, the journey beyond Disrupt is only beginning — and the world will be watching how these startups transform ideas into global impact in the year to come.