announcing the disrupt 2021 extra crunch stage agenda
TechCrunch Disrupt 2021: A First Look at the Extra Crunch Stage Agenda
The 2020 TechCrunch Disrupt conference was a resounding success, but we are continually striving for improvement. This September 21-23, we present another exceptional Disrupt event.
Attendees can anticipate a remarkable roster of speakers addressing cutting-edge subjects. These include crypto, health/biotech, SPACs, the creator economy, and comprehensive guidance on startup methodologies and fundraising approaches.
Extra Crunch Stage Focus
We are pleased to announce speakers for the Extra Crunch stage ahead of schedule. Disrupt features two distinct stages: the main Disrupt Stage and the focused Extra Crunch Stage.
The Extra Crunch Stage is dedicated to providing founders and operators with actionable strategic insights. These insights cover a broad spectrum of essential startup skills.
Core Competencies Explored
The agenda will delve into critical areas such as fundraising, product iteration, tech stack development, and growth marketing. Expect detailed discussions on these and other vital startup competencies.
Networking Opportunities
As in previous years, CrunchMatch will be fully operational throughout the event. This system facilitates connections between investors and entrepreneurs, and enhances networking for all participants.
Preview of the Agenda
We are excited to offer an initial glimpse into the Disrupt 2021 agenda specifically for the Extra Crunch Stage. Further speakers will be confirmed and added in the coming weeks.
However, we were eager to provide this exclusive preview. Secure your pass today for just $99 and be part of the action!
Tuesday, September 21
Securing Initial Funding: Insights from Luciana Lixandru (Sequoia) and Rebecca Lynn (Canvas Ventures)
Determining the optimal strategy for initial funding presents a significant challenge, as an ill-considered decision can negatively affect a nascent company. This session features expert perspectives from individuals who have guided numerous companies through various fundraising stages.
Building a Lasting Community Around Your Company with Alex Angel (Commsor), Katelin Holloway (Seven Seven Six) and Lolita Taub (The Community Fund)
The prevailing trend in the startup ecosystem is undeniably “community.” This panel discussion, featuring Lolita Taub of Community Fund, Alex Angel of Commsor, and Katelin Holloway of Seven Seven Six, will separate genuine value from hype. They will explore the increasing importance of chief community officers in modern startup culture and their impact on financial outcomes.
Connection I.T. Superheroes Awards: Category Winners Revealed by Jamal Khan, Chief Innovation & Growth Officer of Connection
Connection and TechCrunch have collaborated to honor exceptional IT professionals who consistently exceed expectations with the inaugural Connection I.T. Superhero Awards. The winners of the five award categories will be announced live by Jamal Khan, Connection’s Chief Innovation & Growth Officer. The focus is on recognizing individuals and their contributions, rather than specific products.
Navigating the Nuances of Product-Market Fit with Heather Hartnett (Human Ventures), David Thacker (Greylock) and Victoria Treyger (Felicis Ventures)
Achieving product-market fit represents a crucial milestone for founders, unlocking the potential for further growth. However, beyond the concepts of “product” and “market” lie numerous considerations, including user types, product features, marketing strategies, and pricing models, all of which influence the strength of this fit. Join investors David Thacker, Heather Hartnett, and Victoria Treyger as they discuss the more subtle aspects of identifying and evaluating product-market fit.
Strategies for Accelerated Growth with Nik Sharma (Sharma Brands) and Additional Speakers
Over the last year, growth marketing has seen significant advancements, with companies refining successful strategies and discovering new opportunities in an increasingly competitive environment. Leading growth marketing experts will share their insights on achieving growth in 2021.
Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Fundraising with Arun Mathew (Accel), Nicholas Tommarello (Wefunder) and Michele Romanow (Clearco)
While venture capital is readily available, some founders struggle to access established networks or find that conventional fundraising methods are not suitable for their businesses. Innovative alternative fundraising approaches are gaining traction, offering new avenues for securing capital.
The Benefits and Challenges of a Distributed Workforce with Wendy Nice Barnes (GitLab) and Additional Speakers
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly altered many aspects of our lives, particularly the way we work. The widespread adoption of remote work has provided startups with a unique advantage. Hear from founders who have successfully built fast-paced, productive, and culture-focused distributed teams and learn how they have achieved this.
Wednesday, September 22
Supporting Underrepresented Entrepreneurs: Insights from Hana Mohan (MagicBell), Leslie Feinzaig (Female Founders Alliance) and Stephen Bailey (ExecOnline)
Founding a company presents numerous hurdles, however, founders from underrepresented groups often encounter additional obstacles stemming from both overt and subtle biases. During Disrupt, we will host a discussion with founders who will detail their experiences navigating fundraising and scaling their businesses. Advocates will also be present to provide actionable advice and strategic perspectives.
Securing Your Initial B2B Clients: A Guide with Kate Taylor (Notion) and Abi Williams (Udemy)
Achieving revenue expansion relies on effective sales strategies, but the definition of both “effective” and “sales” has undergone significant changes since the onset of COVID-19. The rise of virtual meetings, streamlined onboarding processes, and product-led growth models have fundamentally altered traditional enterprise sales approaches. Founders now require innovative tactics to achieve substantial growth and acquire those crucial first customers. Join Kate Taylor from Notion and Abi Williams of Udemy as they explore best practices for sales in today’s evolving economic landscape.
Considering a Public Offering? Understanding Your Options with Hope Cochran (Madrona Venture Group) and Deena Shakir (Lux Capital)
The landscape for startup exits has become increasingly intricate over the past year. Should you pursue an acquisition, a SPAC, or a traditional IPO? Gain insights from experienced tech professionals regarding evaluating your company’s path to going public and the advantages and disadvantages of each available route.
Sponsored: Empowering the Small Business Sector Through Cloud Technology with Steve Vamos, CEO of Xero
Small businesses are vital contributors to job creation, economic expansion, innovation, and the recovery from global economic challenges. Founded fifteen years ago in New Zealand, Xero was established with the goal of improving the lives of small business owners and their advisors. By transitioning accounting to the cloud and offering an open API, Xero has facilitated the development of affordable technology solutions by over 1,000 application partners. Steve Vamos, CEO, will discuss how Xero is transforming small business operations through cloud technology and its platform, connecting real-time data with customized solutions to enhance success. He will also outline key initiatives designed to foster innovation and collaboration on the Xero platform, and explain the company’s broader vision of building a supportive global community for small businesses.
Re-evaluating Your Hiring Strategies with Jaime Bott (Sequoia Capital), Tawni Cranz (SignalFire) and Doris Tong (EQ Talent Group)
The rapid adoption of distributed workforces has created a new normal, yet many hiring processes have not adapted at the same pace. This panel, featuring Doris Tong of EQ Talent Group, Tawni Cranz from SignalFire, and Jaime Bott of Sequoia, will explore how to prioritize culture and competence in hiring decisions. Furthermore, they will identify areas within your current process that require revision for success in the post-pandemic era.
Strategic Allocation of Funds in Early-Stage Fundraising with Nisha Dua (BBG Ventures), Richard Kerby (Equal Ventures) and Henri Pierre-Jacques (Harlem Capital)
Founders typically aim for growth when securing funding, but what does that growth truly entail? How should newly acquired capital be distributed across the various objectives of your startup? This panel, including Henri Pierre-Jacques of Harlem Capital, Richard Kerby from Equal Ventures, and Nisha Dua of BBG Ventures, will provide guidance on maximizing investment impact while maintaining a disciplined approach to startup finance.
Developing a Compelling Pitch Deck with Mercedes Bent (Lightspeed Ventures), Mar Hershenson (Pear VC) and Saba Karim (Techstars)
While investors actively seek promising opportunities, founders must effectively communicate their startup’s vision with clarity. Our panel of pitch deck experts will discuss essential elements, unnecessary components, and factors that can significantly influence the outcome of your next presentation.
Thursday, September 23
Selecting the Optimal Tech Stack: Insights from Jill Wetzler (Pilot) and Additional Speakers
Startups face numerous critical decisions from their inception, particularly concerning the selection of a suitable tech stack. An ill-considered choice can result in substantial refactoring efforts down the line. Experts will share strategies for evaluating potential stacks and mitigating the risk of costly errors.
Building Brand Resonance and Cultivating Influence within the Creator Economy: A Discussion with Rachel Drori (Daily Harvest) and Julia Munslow (Yahoo News)
A startup’s brand is fundamental to its success. The brand identity, encompassing its name, design, and emotional connection with consumers, significantly impacts a business’s trajectory. The rise of influencer and creator economies has transformed traditional branding approaches. This session will explore how to build a brand in today’s dynamic market and measure its effectiveness.
Leveraging Customer Insights and Data Analytics for Product Iteration: Perspectives from Eleanor Morgan (InVision) and Jean-Denis Greze (Plaid)
Product development is often guided by diverse opinions – customer feedback, NPS scores, and internal visions. However, the voices of potential, yet undiscovered customers are also crucial. This discussion will focus on extracting meaningful insights from this data and creating a product roadmap that balances strategic vision with practical execution.
Deconstructing Pitch Decks: Feedback from Maren Bannon (January Ventures), Melody Koh (NextView Ventures) and Benjamin Ling (Bling Capital)
A compelling pitch deck is essential for successful fundraising. However, founders rarely receive direct, constructive criticism on their communication of the problem, solution, and path to market. Venture capitalists will provide live feedback on pitch decks submitted by attendees during this session.
The Potential of DAOs to Disrupt Venture Capital: A Conversation with David Pakman (Venrock) and Additional Speakers
Investment in blockchain technologies and tokens experienced significant growth in 2021, prompting a re-evaluation of the traditional venture capital model. DAOs, or Decentralized Autonomous Organizations, are emerging as a new form of investment organization built on blockchain technology.
Special Offer
Disrupt passes are currently available for a limited time at a price of $99. This represents a potential savings of up to $300, so early purchase is recommended.