The judging panel for Startup Battlefield 2025 is expanding with an impressive roster of venture capitalists, amplifying the expertise and insight available to participating startups. Following an initial strong lineup, this new group of investors is poised to challenge founders with incisive questions, delving into critical aspects of their ventures before the ultimate $100,000 prize winner is announced at TechCrunch Disrupt. Attendees securing their tickets now for the October 27-29 event in San Francisco's Moscone West will gain direct access to these dynamic pitch sessions.
This latest wave of discerning investors brings diverse backgrounds and extensive industry knowledge to the Disrupt Stage. Among them is Crissy Behrens, a Principal at Insight Partners, whose expertise spans high-growth software investments from pre-seed to IPO stages. Her past roles at Primary Venture Partners and B Capital Group, coupled with hands-on experience in B2B startups, make her a formidable ally and evaluator for emerging companies. Charles Hudson, Managing Partner at Precursor Ventures, focuses on early-stage investments, having backed over 400 companies and supported 450 founders, including notable successes like Bobbie Baby and The Athletic. His philosophy of investing in people first is a testament to his long-term vision for entrepreneurial success. Nicolas Sauvage, President of TDK Ventures, leads a $350 million mandate to fund startups in digital and energy innovation, boasting three unicorns among his firm's 45 investments since 2019. His consistent recognition on the GCV Powerlist underscores his significant influence in the corporate venture landscape. Katie Stanton, founder and General Partner of Moxxie Ventures, leverages her executive experience from industry giants like Twitter and Google, alongside her public service in the White House and State Department, to identify and nurture promising early-stage companies. Lastly, Santi Subotovsky, General Partner at Emergence Capital, has been instrumental in numerous successful investments, notably leading Emergence's early investment in Zoom, which has since grown into a multi-billion dollar enterprise. His continued presence on the boards of leading firms highlights his strategic impact in the venture capital world.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 stands as a nexus where technological innovation is not just introduced but also cultivated for sustained growth. This gathering promises an unparalleled opportunity for over 10,000 startup leaders and venture capitalists to engage, collaborate, and define the future of technology. The Startup Battlefield remains a highlight, offering a powerful platform for founders to launch groundbreaking ideas. Securing attendance now ensures participation in this transformative event, where the next generation of tech leaders and industry-defining innovations will converge.
In this dynamic environment, the confluence of visionary founders and astute investors creates a powerful synergy, propelling new ideas into tangible realities. The rigorous evaluation process at Startup Battlefield not only selects a champion but also instills confidence and provides invaluable feedback, fostering a culture of resilience and continuous improvement within the startup community. Events like TechCrunch Disrupt underscore the essential role of collaboration and mentorship in navigating the complex journey of innovation, proving that collective wisdom and shared ambition are the cornerstones of progress.
