We’re back. Hardware Battlefield is TechCrunch’s premier hardware startup event and is returning to the world’s largest consumer electronic show. Applications are now open until November 3 at 9pm PT. Submit your application here to compete for free demo space at CES, a $50,000 prize and the Metal Man trophy.
Hardware Battlefield is part of TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield series, but with a few small differences. Of course, there is the requirement that participating companies must have a hardware component to their product. That means everything from IoT devices to 3D printing, health wearables to drones are accepted. And, of course, robots.
Hardware Battlefield takes places at CES in Las Vegas, Nevada. Battlefield contestants still have six minutes to pitch to our judging panel followed by six minutes of live Q/A. Judges include hardware investors like Rob Coneybeer, Highway1 and HAX, top designers like Yves Behar and product experts like Susan Paley of GM. Martha Stewart and 50 Cent have also been known to stop by.
TechCrunch editor John Biggs shares a joke with Mr. Cent
This year TechCrunch is going bigger. This year’s booth is located right at the Mezzanine of the Sands Expo outside of Eureka Park.
Last year’s Hardware Battlefield batch was quite a group. Nima, a discreet, portable gluten tester and 2016’s winner, has raised $17.2 million and joined us onstage at Disrupt SF. Calliope Waterworks went through Highway1 with their smart water monitoring device. Other teams created custom insoles with 3D scanning, affordable and safe robotic arms, easy to carry drones and mouth guards that warn of possible concussions.
Applying and participating in the Hardware Battlefield is entirely free and we welcome entries from across the globe. Startups must have a functional prototype to demo to the selection committee. TechCrunch will give preference to companies debuting a product to the public and press via the competition.
So, looking for a way to stand out from the noise at CES? Want to get feedback from the biggest gadgets enthusiasts on the planet? Apply now to be a part of Hardware Battlefield!
