What Leading VCs Expect from AI Founders in 2025
Inside the VC Mindset: What AI Founders Must Know in 2025
The landscape for AI startups is evolving rapidly. With new breakthroughs in both model infrastructure and specialized applications, investors are raising their standards for what makes an AI company stand out. At the upcoming TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 conference in San Francisco (October 27–29), three prominent venture capitalists—Jon McNeill, Aileen Lee, and Steve Jang—will share their perspectives on what it takes to secure investment in today’s competitive AI market.
Meet the Panel: Visionaries Shaping AI Investment
- Jon McNeill, CEO & Co-Founder, DVx Ventures: With leadership experience at Tesla and Lyft, Jon has built and scaled multiple companies, focusing on high-growth business models.
- Aileen Lee, Founder & Managing Partner, Cowboy Ventures: Early investor in major startups and the person who coined the term “unicorn,” Aileen is recognized for her focus on enterprise and consumer software innovation.
- Steve Jang, Founder & Managing Partner, Kindred Ventures: A Midas List investor, Steve’s portfolio spans Uber, Coinbase, Perplexity, and other cutting-edge AI and infrastructure projects.
What VCs Are Looking For in AI Startups
Raising capital for an AI startup in 2025 is more complex than ever. Investors on the Disrupt stage will discuss key topics, including:
- Defensibility: How can AI startups protect their market position in the face of tech giants and rapid commoditization?
- Investment Signals: What clear markers do VCs look for before making a commitment?
- Differentiation: With so many entrants in the AI space, what truly sets a company apart?
Why Attend Disrupt 2025?
The event is expected to bring together over 10,000 startup founders, investors, and tech leaders. Participants will gain:
- Insider knowledge on what VCs really want from AI founders
- Guidance on building defensible, scalable AI businesses
- Networking opportunities with top-tier investors and peers
If you’re scaling an AI business or seeking to understand what drives investment decisions in this field, this session offers actionable insights to refine your strategy. Register now to secure discounted tickets before prices increase after September 26.
