Raising Series C+ Funding: Cathy Gao's TechCrunch Playbook

Growth-Stage Fundraising: A Shifting Landscape

The pace of fundraising for growth-stage companies is accelerating once more. However, the strategies for success have fundamentally evolved. TechCrunch All Stage 2025, taking place on July 15th in Boston, will feature Cathy Gao, a partner at Sapphire Ventures, who will illuminate these changes.

Expert Insights from Cathy Gao

Cathy Gao possesses a strong track record of investing in rapidly expanding startups, including companies like Culture Amp, Gem, Sword Health, and EliseAI. Her experience extends beyond investment, having also operated within a scaling company.

Previously, at Gusto, she played a key role in scaling operations following their Series B funding round. Currently, she is dedicated to assisting founders in navigating a more challenging and competitive funding landscape to secure successful deals.

Register for TechCrunch All Stage 2025

Don't miss the opportunity to benefit from Cathy’s valuable perspectives. Registration for All Stage is now open.

For a limited period, discounted pricing is available on both Founder and Investor tickets. These are currently priced at $155 and $250, respectively, as the event date approaches.

• Event: TechCrunch All Stage 2025
• Date: July 15
• Location: Boston

Current Strategies for Achieving Growth

Gao’s presentation, titled “The New Rules of Growth-Stage Fundraising: How to Win at Raising a Series C & Beyond,” will demonstrate the impact of generative AI on renewed interest in funding for companies in later stages of development.

A key focus will be explaining why many founders are currently failing to secure investment. She will detail the specific criteria utilized by leading investors when evaluating present-day opportunities.

Key Insights from the Session

• The session will provide a breakdown of how to refine your investment pitch.
• Attendees will learn where to concentrate their efforts when seeking funding exceeding $30 million.

For those leading rapidly expanding AI-driven businesses, or simply aiming to remain competitive within this dynamic environment, this session offers essential, actionable strategies.

Missing this tactical session could mean falling behind in the current fundraising climate. It’s a crucial opportunity to understand the evolving expectations of investors.

Generative AI is not just a future trend; it’s actively reshaping the landscape of growth-stage fundraising now.

TechCrunch All Stage: A Single Day with Lasting Impact on Growth

TechCrunch All Stage 2025 will be held on July 15th at the SoWa Power Station in Boston, with support from Fidelity Private Shares.

This event is designed as an intensive, one-day experience focused on providing founders with actionable strategies, valuable insights, and crucial networking opportunities.

Focus on Practical Scaling Strategies

The conference centers around practical guidance for navigating the challenges of scaling a business. Attendees will gain access to hard-earned lessons from those actively involved in funding companies at all growth phases.

Discussions will feature individuals who are directly responsible for investment decisions, offering a unique perspective on what it takes to secure funding.

Who Should Attend?

This event is particularly beneficial for:

• Founders seeking to accelerate their company’s growth.
• Co-founders looking to align strategies and gain new perspectives.
• Heads of Finance responsible for managing financial planning and fundraising.

Attendees are encouraged to come prepared to engage with potential investors and refine their pitch.

Don't miss the opportunity to hear from Cathy – a key speaker at the event. Secure your tickets now to benefit from savings exceeding 60%.