TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Founders Ditching VC Norms for Independent Funding

Beyond Venture Capital: Startup Funding at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

A revealing discussion is scheduled for the Builders Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. This event will take place from October 27th to 29th at Moscone West in San Francisco.

Exploring Alternative Funding Models

The conversation will delve into the landscape of startup funding, moving past the traditional focus on venture capital. It aims to illuminate funding avenues that exist outside of this well-known system.

Attendees can expect an open and honest exploration of diverse financial strategies. The session promises to unpack the realities of securing capital for startups in today’s market.

Event Details

• Event: TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
• Dates: October 27-29
• Location: Moscone West, San Francisco
• Stage: Builders Stage

This discussion is designed for founders and entrepreneurs seeking a comprehensive understanding of funding options. It will provide valuable insights into navigating the complexities of startup finance.

The session will offer a candid perspective on the challenges and opportunities present in the current funding environment. It’s a crucial event for anyone looking to build and scale a successful startup.

Alternative Funding Options Beyond Silicon Valley

Entrepreneurs currently benefit from a wider array of capital acquisition strategies than ever before. However, determining the optimal path – and identifying which option genuinely fosters expansion – can be challenging.

This discussion features insights from Erik Allebest, CEO and co-founder of Chess.com; Gale Wilkinson, founder and managing partner at VITALIZE; and Kay Makishi, vice president at Lupoff/Stevens Family Office.

Diverse Perspectives on Capital Raising

Each panelist offers a unique viewpoint regarding securing funding while preserving both entrepreneurial vision and equity ownership.

The conversation explores various methods, including bootstrapping, engaging with family offices, and leveraging angel networks.

Key Discussion Points

• What strategies are proving successful in the current funding landscape?
• Which approaches should founders steer clear of?
• How can entrepreneurs select the funding model that best aligns with their specific objectives?

The session provides a breakdown of current trends, potential pitfalls, and a framework for making informed decisions about funding strategies.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower founders to choose a path that supports sustainable growth without compromising their long-term goals.

Exploring Alternative Funding Strategies with Industry Leaders

Erik Allebest transformed a personal interest in chess into Chess.com, currently the dominant online destination for both chess players and those seeking to learn the game, boasting a user base exceeding 200 million. Remarkably, this achievement was realized without reliance on venture capital, representing a self-funded triumph distinct from many others.

Gale Wilkinson possesses extensive experience in the angel investment landscape, having personally invested in 50 ventures and spearheaded over $80 million in early-stage funding rounds for more than 150 startups. She is recognized as a specialist in WorkTech, a strong advocate for inclusivity within the venture capital sector, and a valuable resource for entrepreneurs seeking funding aligned with their core principles.

Kay Makishi contributes a unique global perspective as a principal investor with a New York-based family office. Her background encompasses both the U.S. and Japanese markets, providing uncommon understanding of how high-net-worth individuals and families provide support to startups focused on creating positive change, alongside financial gains.

Key Insights from Funding Experts

These three individuals represent a shift in how startups access capital. Traditionally, venture capital has been the primary route for rapid growth, but alternative models are gaining traction.

• Bootstrapping: As demonstrated by Chess.com, building a successful company through self-funding is viable and offers greater control.
• Angel Investment: Gale Wilkinson’s work highlights the importance of individual investors who can provide not only capital but also mentorship.
• Family Offices: Kay Makishi’s role showcases the growing interest of family offices in impact investing and long-term partnerships with startups.

Understanding these diverse funding lanes is crucial for entrepreneurs navigating the current investment climate. Securing capital that aligns with a company’s values and long-term vision is becoming increasingly important.

Explore Alternative Funding Strategies for Growth

Conventional funding pathways aren't the only route to securing capital for your venture. This session will demonstrate how innovative founders are successfully employing alternative funding methods.

Secure your attendance at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 now to benefit from potential savings of up to $668 on ticket prices, and network alongside over 10,000 startup founders and venture capital professionals.

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Key Benefits of Attending

• Discover novel approaches to funding your startup.
• Learn from founders who have achieved success with unconventional strategies.
• Network with a large community of VCs and startup leaders.
• Potentially save significantly on event ticket costs.

Don't limit yourself to traditional funding models. Explore the possibilities and position your company for success.

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