TechCrunch Sessions: AI Launches in Berkeley - Key Highlights

TechCrunch Sessions: AI Kicks Off at UC Berkeley

The highly anticipated event, TechCrunch Sessions: AI, commences today at 8 a.m. PT within the walls of UC Berkeley’s Zellerbach Hall. Preparations are complete, with speakers poised to share their expertise.

This gathering represents a significant moment for the AI community, promising a day filled with valuable insights, groundbreaking innovation, and substantial progress.

Join the AI Conversation

Are you located near Berkeley and have a strong interest in AI? Opportunities to participate still exist. Secure a pass to fully engage with the discussions shaping the future of technology.

Immerse yourself in the conversations that are propelling the next generation of innovation and forge connections that can empower your AI endeavors.

Don't Delay – Secure Your Place

Ensure you don't miss any part of this pivotal event. Register now to be at the center of today’s most important AI developments.

Take advantage of this chance to be part of the action and experience the energy of TechCrunch Sessions: AI firsthand.

Today’s Event Highlights

A remarkable gathering of leading AI innovators is prepared to share valuable perspectives with an audience deeply engaged in the world of artificial intelligence. Throughout the day, opportunities for meaningful networking will be readily available.

The complete session schedule is available for review, and the speaker profiles offer insights into the expertise driving these discussions. Alternatively, attending in person provides a fully immersive experience.

Keynote Panels and Fireside Discussions on the Main Stage

Image Credits:Max Morse

A Conversation with Jared Kaplan, Co-Founder of Anthropic, on the Future of AI

Jared Kaplan will delve into the evolving relationship between AI and humans, predictions regarding Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), and Anthropic’s strategies for developing highly advanced AI systems. The discussion will also cover anticipated advancements and societal preparedness.

Securing AI Funding: Insights from Venture Capital Leaders

Jill Chase (CapitalG), Kanu Gulati (Khosla Ventures), and Sara Ittelson (Accel)

These prominent venture capitalists will share their perspectives on the essential elements for securing AI funding at various stages – from initial seed rounds to Series C investments. They will discuss the shift from initial excitement to practical applications and sustainable business models.

The Rise of the AI Co-Founder

Kisson Lin (Tanka)

Founders are increasingly burdened with numerous responsibilities, but AI offers a solution. Lin will explain how AI can assist with tasks, empower solo founders to scale their operations, and fundamentally alter the dynamics of startup ventures.

Navigating the Ethical and Safety Challenges of AI
Artemis Seaford (ElevenLabs) and Ion Stoica (UC Berkeley) 

This discussion will address the critical issues surrounding deepfakes, the responsible implementation of AI, and the steps the technology community can take to mitigate the growing ethical and safety concerns.

The Pitch Perfect: A Live Pitch Competition

Early-stage founders will present their ideas live to a panel of top VCs, receiving immediate feedback. This session is essential for anyone seeking to refine their pitch and understand what investors prioritize.

Leveraging Foundational Models for Startup Innovation
Logan Kilpatrick (DeepMind, Jae Lee (TwelveLabs), and Danielle Perszyk (Amazon)

This session will explore how startups can utilize rapidly developing foundational models to create unique products and maintain a competitive edge in the fast-paced AI landscape.

AI-Powered Repair Solutions: A Case Study with Toyota and NLX

Andrei Papancea (NLX) and Kordel France (Toyota)

Discover how NLX and Toyota collaborated to develop an AI-powered tool that provides technicians with access to a vast library of repair documentation through a conversational interface, enhancing productivity and dealership efficiency.

Empowering Teams with AI Agents for Collaborative Work
Iliana Quinonez (Google Cloud)

This session will demonstrate how organizations can enable their teams to build intelligent agents that work alongside humans and other AI systems, exploring the future of AI-driven collaboration.

Strategies for Launching a Product in a Competitive Market
Oliver Cameron (Odyssey) and Ann Bordetsky (NEA)

Cameron and Bordetsky will share strategies for competing with established industry leaders, focusing on differentiation, effective execution, and gaining market share.

Focused Breakout Sessions for In-Depth Exploration

OpenAI’s Support for AI Startups
Hao Sang (OpenAI)

Learn about OpenAI’s programs designed to support startups, including access to advanced models, technical guidance, and a feedback mechanism that influences its development roadmap.

Secure Generative AI Deployments for Regulated Industries
Yann Stoneman and Betsy Groves (Cohere)

This session will focus on the secure deployment of generative AI within regulated industries, utilizing on-premise infrastructure. Cohere will present real-world examples, compliance best practices, and demonstrations.

Navigating the Global AI Policy Landscape
Hua Wang (Global Innovation Forum), Gerard de Graaf (European Union Delegation to the U.S.), and Matthew Caron (UK Department for Business and Trade)

Startups will gain insights into navigating the complex world of AI policy and regulation to facilitate global expansion. The session will cover leveraging AI for trade, ensuring compliance, and capitalizing on international growth opportunities.

Building Scalable GenAI Applications with MySQL HeatWave
Nipun Agarwal, Sandeep Agrawal, and Luke Kowalski (Oracle / MySQL)

Discover how MySQL HeatWave simplifies the development of generative AI applications with integrated Large Language Models (LLMs), real-time data integration, and a scalable architecture.

SAP’s Integration of AI into the Enterprise
Rob Seifert and Max McPhee (SAP)

Explore how SAP is incorporating AI across its business suite, including tools like Joule and custom development capabilities, to help enterprises streamline operations and enhance efficiency.

AI Discussions Extend Beyond the Main Event

The primary keynote presentations and smaller breakout sessions represent only the initial opportunities for engagement. The most impactful dialogues will unfold within the Expo Hall, the designated networking areas, and via the Braindate application.

Today provides the ideal setting for resolving product-related challenges, soliciting feedback on pitches from venture capitalists, or seeking guidance from experienced mentors. Leverage the Braindate platform to schedule individual or small-group discussions by either proposing your own subject matter or participating in existing conversations.

Subsequently, arrange in-person meetings at the networking lounge to facilitate these connections.

Furthermore, remember the Side Events taking place throughout Berkeley after the official event hours. These gatherings, organized by attendees and sponsors, are designed to sustain the energy surrounding AI and foster lasting, valuable relationships.

These supplementary events will help you cultivate meaningful new connections well beyond the conclusion of the main conference.

Opportunities Remain to Participate in Today’s Leading AI Event

Registration for TechCrunch Sessions: AI is still open! Secure your place now and become part of the dynamic AI conversation.

Join fellow innovators and experts at UC Berkeley’s Zellerbach Hall. The event concludes at 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time, presenting a limited window to attend.

Don't let this chance pass you by to connect with the forefront of artificial intelligence development.

Why Attend TechCrunch Sessions: AI?

• Gain insights from industry leaders.
• Network with fellow AI professionals.
• Explore the latest advancements in AI technology.

TechCrunch Sessions: AI offers a unique platform for learning and collaboration within the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

The event is scheduled to finish at 4:30 PM PT, so prompt action is encouraged to ensure participation.