Inside the investor lens on AI startups at Disrupt 2025

From model infrastructure to niche applications, AI is producing a new breed of founders and a new set of investor expectations. In this candid conversation on the AI Stage, at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 — taking place on October 27-29 in San Francisco — top VCs will share what’s catching their eye (and what’s not), how they’re thinking about defensibility in a world of AI monopolies, and what founders need to show to get that next term sheet.

If you are scaling or planning to scale an AI startup, you cannot miss this session. Learn what it really takes to build a viable AI company. Register now and save up to $668 before savings end on September 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Or, are you an investor who backs AI breakthroughs? See what an Investor Pass can do for you.

Who’s speaking

• Jon McNeill, CEO and co-founder, DVx Ventures — Jon has launched 12 companies through his venture studio, built and scaled businesses delivering multifold returns, and led operations at Tesla and Lyft during periods of dramatic growth.
• Aileen Lee, founder and managing partner, Cowboy Ventures — Aileen invests in early-stage enterprise and consumer software companies like Dollar Shave Club, Drata Security, Guild, and Ironclad. She is the person who coined the term “unicorn,” co-founded All Raise, and is a longtime voice for women in tech.
• Steve Jang, founder and managing partner, Kindred Ventures — Steve is a Midas List investor in AI, decentralized systems, infrastructure, and frontier tech. His portfolio includes early bets in Uber, Coinbase, Perplexity, Fal, and PlayAI.

What you’ll learn

This session goes beyond pitch decks to reveal what investors are watching. Expect insights on:

• What makes an AI startup defensible in 2025.
• Signals investors look for before writing the check.
• How to distinguish yourself in a crowded landscape.

Investor clarity for AI innovation

Join 10,000+ startup and VC leaders October 27-29 at San Francisco’s Moscone West. From deep technical sessions to founder stories, Disrupt 2025 is where you gain clarity for growth and opportunity. Register now to save up to $668 before prices increase after tomorrow, September 26.