Meet the first batch of VCs set to judge Startup Battlefield 200 at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

The Startup Battlefield 200 is set to take center stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, and anticipation is building as the first wave of judges is revealed. This prestigious competition has a legacy of transforming startups into industry leaders, with past alumni like Dropbox and Cloudflare paving the way for innovative disruption. Scheduled for October 27–29 in San Francisco, only the top 20 startups selected from thousands of applicants will have the chance to pitch their groundbreaking ideas to a panel of elite venture capitalists in front of an enthusiastic audience. Each participant seeks to create a significant impact, and the stakes are high as they vie for a $100,000 equity-free prize that could launch their ventures into the spotlight. The judges, a group of highly regarded VCs, will rigorously evaluate the startups, providing invaluable feedback during intense Q&A sessions. Their insights not only reveal what excites top investors but also highlight potential concerns and the qualities that lead to further discussions. Among the first five judges announced is Philip Clark from Thrive Capital, known for his investments in cutting-edge AI and robotics companies. With a strong academic background from Stanford, Philip also advises on emerging technologies. Madison Faulkner, a partner at NEA, brings her expertise in data and AI investments, having previously led data science initiatives at Facebook and Thrasio. Her track record includes supporting innovative startups in various tech fields. Leslie Feinzaig, founder of Graham & Walker, is dedicated to reshaping public markets by empowering a new generation of visionary founders. She has a rich background in startups, with significant exits under her belt. Ilya Kirnos, co-founder of SignalFire, leverages a decade of experience in developing AI-driven investment platforms that identify promising startups and support them in scaling effectively. Lastly, Doug Pepper from ICONIQ Growth, with a history of successful investments in companies like Airtable, brings a wealth of experience to the judging panel. As TechCrunch Disrupt celebrates its 20th anniversary, it continues to be the epicenter for tech innovation, offering invaluable sessions and networking opportunities. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this pivotal event and witness the future of technology unfold. Secure your tickets at discounted rates today.