TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 to Tackle AI Defensibility as Founders Save Up to $200
Updated
Updated · TechCrunch · Sep 14
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 to Tackle AI Defensibility as Founders Save Up to $200
1 articles · Updated · TechCrunch · Sep 14
Summary
October 13-15, TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will host a Builders Stage session on how AI startups can stay defensible when OpenAI, Anthropic or Google turn startup features into platform capabilities.
The discussion centers on a strategic shift across AI: founders are no longer just racing rival startups, but foundation-model companies whose rapid releases can upend product plans, fundraising and valuations.
Michel Tricot of Airbyte, Linda Tong of Webflow and Radical Ventures partner Rob Toews will bring founder, operator and investor views on where durable advantages still exist.
Airbyte says it serves more than 7,000 customers, including 18% of the Fortune 500, underscoring the session's focus on moats such as proprietary data, embedded workflows, customer relationships and trust.
The event at Moscone West in San Francisco is expected to draw 10,000-plus founders, investors and operators across 250-plus sessions, with discounted passes available until September 25.