Series A Funding in 2026: TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 Insights

Navigating Series A Funding at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, scheduled for October 27–29 at Moscone West in San Francisco, will offer invaluable insights into securing Series A funding.

Unfiltered Perspectives on Venture Capital

The event promises a direct and honest assessment of the current funding landscape. Attendees will gain access to candid discussions with investors.

Expect to receive straightforward guidance from those actively making investment decisions. The focus will be on practical advice, devoid of misleading tactics.

Key Takeaways for Startups

Disrupt 2025 aims to provide a clear understanding of what it takes to successfully close a Series A round in today’s challenging market.

Gain insights into investor expectations.
Learn about current market trends impacting funding.
Receive actionable strategies for pitching to VCs.

The event will deliver a realistic outlook, emphasizing transparency and genuine advice for startups seeking capital.

This is an opportunity to hear directly from the individuals who control the flow of venture capital. It’s a chance to understand their criteria and priorities.

Securing Series A Funding in 2026

This discussion, part of the Builders Stage series, features Katie Stanton from Moxxie Ventures, Thomas Krane of Insight Partners, and Sangeen Zeb representing GV.

These investors have collectively reviewed countless pitch decks, spearheaded significant investment rounds, and guided numerous startups through their initial phases of growth and expansion.

Key Factors Influencing Investment Decisions

The session will reveal the critical elements that transform a pitch from a potential consideration to a firm commitment.

Attendees will gain insights into the metrics investors prioritize, effective strategies for communicating a company’s growth trajectory, and common reasons why investors choose to decline an opportunity.

Understanding Investor Perspectives

The panelists will share their experiences evaluating startups and identifying those with the greatest potential for success.

Their expertise covers the entire lifecycle, from early-stage ventures to companies achieving substantial scale.

Essential Elements of a Successful Pitch

The discussion will focus on how to effectively articulate a startup’s value proposition and demonstrate its market opportunity.

Here's what will be covered:

The most important metrics to track and present.
Crafting a compelling growth story that resonates with investors.
Identifying and avoiding common pitfalls that lead to investor rejection.

Ultimately, the goal is to equip founders with the knowledge and understanding needed to navigate the Series A fundraising process successfully in 2026.

Identifying High-Growth Potential: Insights from Leading Venture Capitalists

The ability to recognize companies poised for rapid expansion – often referred to as "rocket ships" – is a crucial skill in the venture capital world. Several investors have consistently demonstrated this aptitude. Their success stems from a combination of experience, strategic insight, and a keen understanding of market dynamics.

Key Venture Capitalists and Their Investment Focus

Here's a look at some prominent VCs and the areas where they excel at identifying high-potential startups:

Katie Stanton: Stanton’s career trajectory, encompassing roles at Twitter and within the Obama administration, provides a unique perspective. She now leads Moxxie Ventures, where she has invested in over 100 early-stage companies. Notable portfolio companies include Airtable, Calm, and Carta. Her investment philosophy centers on strong conviction and prioritizing the needs of founders.
Thomas Krane: As a Managing Director at Insight Partners, Krane specializes in identifying companies exhibiting significant scalability. He has a proven track record of backing successful software and cybersecurity firms. Investments like JFrog and SentinelOne demonstrate his ability to pinpoint companies with substantial traction.
Sangeen Zeb: Zeb, a General Partner at GV, concentrates on startups operating within the enterprise and artificial intelligence sectors. She actively participates on the boards of companies like Vercel and Harvey. Her leadership has been instrumental in driving investments in some of the most discussed growth narratives in the technology industry.

These investors represent a diverse range of expertise, but they share a common thread: a capacity to discern companies with the potential for exceptional growth and market impact. Their insights are invaluable in navigating the dynamic landscape of venture capital.

Positioning for Success in the Current Market

The environment for Series A funding is increasingly competitive, with greater risks involved. This session provides an exclusive, practical examination of strategies for securing investment on favorable terms and establishing a sustainable business model.

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: A Key Event

Connect with over 10,000 startup founders and venture capital professionals at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. Significant savings of up to $668 are available on registration fees, but these discounts expire on September 27th.

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of the funding landscape. Secure your place at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 today!