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

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025^[1] hits Moscone West in San Francisco on October 27–29, and if you’re aiming for big funding goals, then leaning in on this session on October 29 at the Builders Stage^[2] is essential. Three powerhouse voices in venture and AI-driven innovation will share what it really takes to close major rounds — long before you’re in the room with investors.

Why this session matters

Raising late-stage capital goes beyond hitting revenue targets. It’s about telling the right story, tracking the right metrics, and building relationships that compound over time. Expect sharp insights, candid reflections, and actionable frameworks that founders can apply now to secure meaningful funding later.

Meet the experts guiding the next wave of growth

Andrea Thomaz^[3], CEO and co-founder, Diligent Robotics^[4] — social robotics pioneer scaling AI hardware startups; reshaping healthcare workforce with collaborative robotics; founder’s perspective on building investor trust.

Zeya Yang^[5], partner, IVP^[6] — former product leader at a16z, Plaid, and Dropbox; invests in AI-native startups like Graphite, Macro, and Tennr.

Lila Preston^[7], head of growth equity, Generation Investment Management — scaling impact-focused companies since 2004; board member for Nature’s Fynd and Pivot Bio; brings a global financial and mission-driven perspective.

Secure your spot at Disrupt 2025 with up to $668 ticket savings

Join 10,000+ startup and VC leaders for this must-attend conversation at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025^[8], where today’s decisions meet tomorrow’s innovation.

Save up to $668 through September 26. Prices increase on September 27. Register now and save^[9]!