TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 Reveals Expanded Builders Stage Lineup

Tech startups may begin with a simple idea, but turning that idea into a successful business is rarely simple. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, founders and investors will dive into the real challenges of building and scaling companies. Scheduled for October 27–29 at Moscone West, the event will feature the Builders Stage — a space dedicated to practical advice and honest conversations about what it truly takes to grow a startup.

The Builders Stage focuses less on hype and more on the day-to-day realities of building companies. Founders, operators, and venture capitalists will share tactics, lessons, and strategies that help transform early ideas into thriving businesses.

A growing lineup of startup leaders

Organizers have already confirmed well-known tech figures such as investor Elad Gil, former Twitter CEO Dick Costolo, and Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen. Now the agenda is expanding even further with new speakers and sessions, including Jason Citron, the founder of Discord.

Attendees can expect discussions covering key startup milestones — from securing the first investment round to building a strong go-to-market strategy and understanding where artificial intelligence fits into modern businesses.

Fundraising advice from experienced investors

One major focus of the Builders Stage will be startup fundraising. Several panels will explore how founders can attract investors and close critical funding rounds.

A session titled “How to Pitch When You’re at the Inception Stage” will feature venture capitalists Navin Chaddha from Mayfield and Charles Hudson of Precursor Ventures. They will explain how founders can raise pre-seed funding even before launching a product or gaining traction.

Another discussion will focus on raising a Series A round in 2026, with investors sharing what metrics and strategies typically convince venture capitalists to issue a term sheet.

Investors will also reveal what they actually look for in startup pitches — including the signals that make founders stand out and the mistakes that often turn investors away.

Alternative funding and future investment trends

Not every startup relies on venture capital. A dedicated panel will explore alternative funding paths, featuring Erik Allebest, CEO of Chess.com, alongside angel investors and family office leaders.

Meanwhile, venture capitalists from firms such as Index Ventures, Greylock, and Felicis will share where they expect the biggest investment opportunities to emerge in 2026.

Scaling companies in an uncertain world

Beyond fundraising, the Builders Stage will highlight the realities of scaling startups. In a fireside chat, Ryan Petersen will discuss how leaders can grow companies even during economic uncertainty. His company Flexport has raised more than $2.3 billion, giving him a unique perspective on global trade and technology.

Another conversation will explore how community-driven products succeed. Jason Citron and Tade Oyerinde, founder of Campus, will discuss how building strong communities helped their platforms grow and stand out.

AI, robotics, and the future of startups

Artificial intelligence will also take center stage. Panels will examine whether startups should hire AI agents to handle tasks like sales and customer support, and whether new “vibe-coding” tools could reduce the need for traditional engineering teams.

Attendees will even see a live demonstration of Moxi, a humanoid robot developed by Diligent Robotics, designed to help hospital staff by handling routine tasks.

With thousands of founders, investors, and tech leaders expected to attend, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 promises to deliver valuable insights into startup growth — from raising the first check to scaling companies in a rapidly changing tech landscape.