TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Introducing the Going Public Stage

TechCrunch Disrupt Launches the Going Public Stage

A new platform, the Going Public Stage, is being introduced at TechCrunch Disrupt. This dedicated space is designed for founders currently managing the intermediate and advanced phases of company development.

This information is crucial for all founders, but particularly beneficial for those experiencing rapid growth, preparing for an exit strategy, or contemplating future directions. Proactive planning is a hallmark of successful founders, regardless of their current funding stage – be it seed or Series E.

Featured Speakers and Insights

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from prominent figures in the technology and venture capital sectors. These include Julie Wainwright of The RealReal, David George from Andreessen Horowitz, and Nirav Tolia, the CEO of Nextdoor. They will share valuable insights gained from experience in building robust companies, adapting to evolving market conditions, and maintaining a competitive edge.

This stage will serve as a guide for future development, covering topics from initial public offering (IPO) preparation to utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) for go-to-market (GTM) strategies.

Further session details and speaker announcements are forthcoming. Don't miss the Going Public Stage at Disrupt, and secure your ticket now for potential savings of up to $675.

Session Highlights

How Long Should a Startup Stay Private?

David George, general partner, Andreessen Horowitz

Modern startups are achieving substantial valuations and providing liquidity to employees while remaining private for extended periods. However, this also introduces a new set of challenges for late-stage companies. George will analyze the changing venture capital environment, outlining the needs of the next generation of scaled startups and how capital is being allocated in a climate of tighter funding and increased expectations.

The discussion will cover IPO timelines, secondary markets, and the evolving function of growth investors, providing a comprehensive overview of building lasting companies in today’s market and anticipating future trends.

Everything You Need to Know Before an Exit

Jai Das, co-founder, president, and partner, Sapphire Ventures; Roseanne Wincek, co-founder and managing director, Renegade Partners; and another speaker to be announced

Should a company pursue a public offering, an acquisition, or continue operating as a private entity? In the current volatile market, founders must consider exit strategies earlier and with greater precision. This panel, featuring two leading VCs and an experienced CFO, will explore how to position a company for all potential outcomes.

The conversation will address timing, key performance indicators, investor expectations, and the complexities of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), IPO preparation, or sustained growth. This session is designed to help companies make informed decisions, whether they are a year away from an event or just beginning to scale.

Building What Comes Next

Julie Wainwright, CEO, Ahara; founder and former CEO, TheRealReal

Wainwright has a proven ability to identify emerging trends and capitalize on them. Having pioneered the luxury resale market with The RealReal and now venturing into personalized nutrition with Ahara, she has built a career on anticipating future needs. This fireside chat will reveal the strategies required to start anew, scale rapidly, and maintain resilience amidst market fluctuations and personal transitions.

The discussion will delve into lessons learned from creating new categories, the risks associated with reinvention, and the value of experience in the startup landscape.

How AI Is Forcing Late-stage Startups to Rewire GTM — or Be Left Behind

Jane Alexander, partner, CapitalG; Vanessa Larco, co-founder, Premise; and Nirav Tolia, CEO, Nextdoor

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing how startups acquire and retain customers, and late-stage companies are under pressure to adapt quickly. This panel, comprised of two prominent VCs and a seasoned founder, will examine how AI is transforming go-to-market strategies across sales, marketing, and customer success.

The discussion will focus on successful applications of AI, separating hype from reality, and integrating AI into a GTM engine without losing strategic focus. This conversation is essential for scaling companies seeking to leverage AI for future growth.

Considering an Exit? Begin at Disrupt 2025

For founders contemplating an acquisition, evaluating an initial public offering, or planning their desired exit strategy, the Going Public Stage at Disrupt 2025 is specifically designed to facilitate that next crucial step.

Gain valuable perspectives from experienced leaders who have successfully managed the challenges, opportunities, and necessary adaptations involved in exiting a company. You'll leave equipped with actionable insights.