From idea to first check: Raising pre-seed and seed capital with Charles Hudson and Navin Chaddha at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

In a vibrant gathering of over 10,000 entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is set to unfold at Moscone West in San Francisco from October 27-29. Among the highlights of this prestigious event is a compelling panel discussion on the Builders Stage featuring two prominent early-stage investors: Charles Hudson from Precursor Ventures and Navin Chaddha of Mayfield. Their session will tackle one of the most critical challenges faced by startups: securing initial funding when only a concept exists. Hudson and Chaddha promise an engaging and straightforward dialogue that will shed light on the essentials of attracting that first institutional investment. They will delve into the significance of crafting a captivating narrative and establishing trust, even in the absence of traction. With extensive experience in the field, both investors have a keen eye for identifying emerging talent. They will share the characteristics they seek in founders who are just beginning their entrepreneurial journey, as well as the warning signs that could indicate potential pitfalls. In the realm of pre-seed and seed funding, where often there is no product, user base, or demonstrated traction, investors like Hudson and Chaddha are placing their bets on the founders themselves. Charles Hudson has made a name for himself by investing in over 400 companies and supporting more than 450 founders. He emphasizes the importance of believing in a founder's vision and adaptability, stating, "The earlier you invest, the more critical it is to trust in the founder’s story and their capacity to pivot. It’s about more than just addressing a problem; it’s about faith in the person tackling it." On the other hand, Navin Chaddha brings a wealth of experience in recognizing exceptional founders and helping them scale their businesses. With his investments generating over $120 billion in equity value, he asserts that early-stage investments hinge primarily on the values of the founder. "We prioritize people first, then markets, and lastly products," he notes. "We seek founders who are driven by a mission and possess the resilience needed to succeed." For those currently raising funds or planning for future ventures, this session offers invaluable insights and practical advice for navigating the early stages of venture capital with confidence and clarity. Be sure to attend this session live, along with 200+ other discussions spanning five industry stages. Don’t miss the chance to register and save up to $675 before the price increases after July!