Green Bets: Insights from Top VCs at Extreme Tech Challenge

TechCrunch Hosts the Extreme Tech Challenge Global Finals

On July 22nd, TechCrunch will proudly present the Extreme Tech Challenge Global Finals. This event stands as one of the world’s most significant startup competitions dedicated to addressing global challenges.

The competition is aligned with the United Nations’ 17 sustainability goals, seeking innovative solutions for a better future.

A Showcase of Innovation

Attendees will have the opportunity to witness a diverse range of groundbreaking startups. Each participant will demonstrate their latest developments and technologies.

Don't miss the compelling pitch-off competition, a highlight of the event showcasing the most promising ventures.

Expert Panels and Discussions

TechCrunch editors will host insightful feature panels throughout the day.

A particularly anticipated discussion will focus on “going green,” featuring prominent investors Shilpi Kumar, Jenny Rooke, and Albert Wenger.

These speakers are actively involved in funding climate startups poised for substantial growth.

Meet the Investors

Shilpi Kumar serves as a partner at Urban Us, an investment platform concentrating on urban technology and climate solutions.

Prior to this role, she spearheaded go-to-market strategies and initial sales at Filament, a company specializing in secure wireless networks for physical assets.

Shilpi’s investment experience encompasses hardware, mobility, energy, IoT, and robotics, with previous positions at VTF Capital, First Round Capital, and Village Global.

Jenny Rooke is the founder and managing director of Genoa Ventures.

However, her experience in life sciences investing extends back years, including roles at Fidelity Biosciences and the Gates Foundation.

At the Gates Foundation, she oversaw more than $250 million in funding, supporting startups in genetic engineering, diagnostics, and synthetic biology.

Rooke initially invested independently through 5 Prime Ventures, building a substantial life sciences syndicate on AngelList before establishing Genoa.

Albert Wenger has been a managing partner at Union Square Ventures for over 13 years.

Before USV, he led del.icio.us through its acquisition by Yahoo and was an early investor in companies like Etsy and Tumblr.

Albert has a history of entrepreneurship, having founded a management consulting firm and an early data analytics company.

Currently, his investments include goTenna, a company focused on expanding connectivity through a mobile mesh network.

The Future of Sustainability

Sustainability is not only crucial for the planet’s future but also represents a significant economic opportunity.

These experienced investors will share their perspectives on Greentech, discussing how venture capitalists and startups are approaching this evolving landscape.