TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will host a series of side events across San Francisco from October 13 to 16, extending the conference’s networking reach beyond the main exhibition floor. These gatherings aim to connect founders, investors, and industry professionals through targeted sessions focused on specific regions, technologies, and community interests.

The schedule includes a Korea-focused networking night on October 13, organized by KOTRA to support startups entering the U.S. market. Complimentary Expo+ passes are available for qualified applicants without Disrupt tickets. On the same day, Enterprise Ireland will host an Irish startup mixer at Ireland House, while SafetyWing will hold a casual happy hour at Harrington’s Irish Pub for remote work community members.

October 14 features additional sector-specific events: a cybersecurity-focused evening hosted by Skyflow and Descope, and a Korean-American investor networking session organized by KOTRA Silicon Valley. The Irish Shark Tank event returns as part of Enterprise Ireland’s programming, offering founders a platform to present to investors in a relaxed setting.

Other sessions cover diverse topics including hardware innovation, AI development in Taiwan, and niche community interests like pet ownership among tech professionals. A demonstration by Uhura Bionics on October 7 will showcase voice-restoration technology for individuals with laryngeal impairments, highlighting medical technology applications.

Disrupt 2026 itself runs from October 13 to 15 at Moscone West, featuring the main conference program alongside these satellite events. The publication notes that while some events require registration, many are open to qualified participants outside the core conference audience. Ticket availability remains open for the main event, which emphasizes direct engagement between startups and investors.

The side events collectively illustrate a strategic effort to foster specialized connections within the global tech ecosystem, using location-based and thematic groupings to facilitate targeted professional relationships during the Disrupt Week period.