Why Deep Tech Startups Fail to Scale from Prototype to Production

At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, Bedrock Robotics' Kevin Peterson and Foxglove's Adrian Macneil shared insights on why many deep tech startups struggle to transition from prototype to production. Even with the right team and technology, founders often miss the critical steps required to manufacture and scale their products. The discussion focused on the common pitfalls and lessons learned from their own experiences. Peterson and Macneil emphasized the importance of understanding manufacturing processes, supply chain management, and the need for robust testing and iteration. They also highlighted the cultural shift required for engineers to think about production at scale from the early stages. The conversation provided practical advice for founders looking to cross the gap between a working prototype and a market-ready product. This session is a must-watch for deep tech entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone interested in the challenges of bringing hardware innovations to market. Follow TechCrunch for more coverage from Disrupt 2026.