TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is set to take over Moscone West in San Francisco from October 27–29, and if you’re aiming for a major funding milestone, one session you can’t afford to miss is all about preparing for your late-stage funding rounds. Join a panel of leading experts in venture capital and AI innovation as they reveal what it truly takes to close big investment rounds — well before you step into the room with investors.
This engaging session on October 29 on the Builders Stage is a must-attend for founders who understand that Series C fundraising is about more than just hitting revenue targets. It’s about crafting the right story, monitoring key metrics, and building relationships that grow over time. Forget generic pitch decks — this panel will share practical strategies, honest insights, and proven frameworks to help you position your startup for meaningful funding down the line.
Meet the Industry Experts Driving Growth
Zeya Yang, partner at IVP, offers a unique perspective with his dual background as an investor and former product leader. Having worked at a16z, Plaid, and Dropbox, Zeya specializes in AI-native startups transforming the future of work. He’s invested in innovative companies like Graphite, Macro, and Tennr, bringing sharp product instincts and founder-first thinking to every deal he’s involved in.
Lila Preston, head of growth equity at Generation Investment Management, has been scaling impact-driven businesses since 2004. She serves on the boards of eco-conscious brands like Nature’s Fynd and Pivot Bio. With experience across Latin America, the UK, and the U.S., Lila combines financial expertise with a mission-driven approach, making her an invaluable guide for founders focused on long-term, sustainable growth.
Andrea Thomaz, CEO and co-founder of Diligent Robotics, offers a founder’s perspective. A pioneer in social robotics, Andrea has led groundbreaking work in AI and automation, with robots featured in major publications like The New York Times and Popular Science. Her company is revolutionizing healthcare staffing through collaborative robotics, and she knows firsthand how to build investor confidence in moonshot technologies.
Don’t Miss Out — Unlock Valuable Insights and Save Big
Join over 10,000 startup founders and venture capital leaders at this must-attend event — one of the most exciting tech conferences of the year. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, your strategic decisions today will shape your startup’s future growth. Register now to take advantage of early-bird savings of up to $675 before prices go up.
