Startup Alley is part wild west, part farmer’s market. But it’s all about startups. You’ll love it.
It’s a three-day exhibition. The first two days will see web companies take over The Concourse at San Francisco Design Center. Then, on the last day, September 11, hardware-oriented companies get their turn in the spotlight, creating a very unique science fair vibe. Like in years past, there will also be sections dedicated to startups from around the world. In the past we’ve had country pavilions populated by startups from Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Israel, Italy, Korea, and Mexico.
This all happens while speakers and startups take the stage at the other end of the Concourse. Not interested in hearing Marc Benioff talking about killing software? Pursue the hundreds of startups in the Alley and come back for Marissa Mayer’s talk about rebuilding Yahoo.
Startup Alley companies also get the chance to present on the Disrupt stage in front of our esteemed judges. On Monday and Tuesday, attendees can vote for their favorite Startup Alley company, which will then have the chance to take the stage as part of that day’s Battlefield contestants. If chosen, that company will be eligible to compete in the Battlefield Finals for the $50,000 grand prize and the privilege of taking home the Disrupt Cup.
Spots are still open to exhibit for Startup Alley and Hardware Alley. Exhibitors get a cocktail table along with power and Internet access, but there are some criteria to keep in mind before applying — startups wanting to participate in Startup Alley must be less than 2 years old and must have raised less than $2.5 million in funding. More info is here.
Needless to say, we’re pretty proud of the startups showing their wares in Startup and Hardware Alley. While some amazing startups launch on the Disrupt stage, a bevy of interesting startups will vie for attention elsewhere in the building.
Sound like fun? It really is, and you dear reader have the option of attending or exhibiting.