Preparing for your later-stage raise: Insider strategies from top investors at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is set to take place at Moscone West in San Francisco from October 27 to 29. If you're contemplating a significant fundraising effort, attending the session on October 29 at the Builders Stage is a must. This session features influential figures in venture capital and AI innovation who will unveil the essential strategies for successfully securing major investments long before you enter discussions with potential backers. Raising capital in the later stages transcends mere financial metrics; it's about crafting a compelling narrative, monitoring key performance indicators, and nurturing enduring relationships within the investment community. Attendees can anticipate insightful discussions, honest reflections, and practical frameworks that entrepreneurs can implement immediately to enhance their prospects for substantial funding in the future. Among the speakers is Andrea Thomaz, the CEO and co-founder of Diligent Robotics, a leader in social robotics that is revolutionizing the healthcare sector with collaborative AI-driven solutions. She will share her insights on building trust with investors from a founder's perspective. Joining her is Zeya Yang, a partner at IVP, who previously held product leadership roles at prominent companies like a16z, Plaid, and Dropbox. Yang focuses on investing in startups that leverage AI, such as Graphite, Macro, and Tennr, offering a unique view on what attracts investors in this competitive space. Lila Preston, head of growth equity at Generation Investment Management, will also contribute her extensive experience in scaling impact-driven companies since 2004. As a board member for Nature’s Fynd and Pivot Bio, she brings a global financial perspective blended with a mission-oriented approach. This gathering is anticipated to attract over 10,000 startup founders and venture capitalists, making it a pivotal event where current decisions align with future innovations. Don't miss out on the opportunity to register before prices increase after September 26, with potential savings of up to $668 available until then.