Uncover AI Innovators: Join Us at the TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 AI Showcase!
At the TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, the AI Stage will feature influential leaders shaping the future of technology, innovation, and security. Prominent venture capitalists will share invaluable insights on overcoming funding obstacles in this dynamic ecosystem, spotlighting their investments in upcoming AI visionaries. Learn from trailblazers at esteemed companies like Apptronik, ElevenLabs, Hugging Face, Runway, Wonder Dynamics, Writer, and Wayve—innovators who are redefining the tech landscape.
These transformative leaders, along with additional speakers listed below, are at the forefront of AI’s growing impact. Elevate your knowledge at the AI Stage during Disrupt, and discover how technological advancements are reshaping industries, enhancing user engagement, and what insights are crucial for startups and investors to gain a competitive edge.
Keep an eye out for more sessions and speakers to be added soon. In the meantime, secure your place at Disrupt 2025—engage in stimulating conversations at the AI Stage, along with four other specialized stages: Space, Builders, Going Public, and Disrupt—set for October 27-29 at Moscone West in San Francisco. Take advantage of discounts up to $675 before prices rise after July. Register now to secure your savings.

Introducing the AI Stage Lineup
Investing in the Future: VC Perspectives on AI Startups
Speakers TBA.
As the AI industry evolves, from foundational models to niche innovations, a new wave of entrepreneurship is emerging, raising investor expectations. Leading venture capitalists will share what aspects capture their attention, how they evaluate potential in a sector shaped by AI titans, and what startups need to present for essential funding.
Creative Machines: Where AI Converges with Imagination
Nikola Todorovic, co-founder and CEO of Wonder Dynamics; additional speakers to be confirmed shortly.
AI extends beyond enhancing workflows; it engages in producing art, media, and experiences in groundbreaking manners yet to be fully realized. CEO Nikola Todorovic will join other industry leaders to explore how AI is revolutionizing creativity, merging the role of the creator with algorithms, and unveiling fresh opportunities for storytellers, designers, and innovators.
TechCrunch Event
San Francisco
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October 27-29, 2025

Shaping Tomorrow with AI
May Habib, co-founder and CEO of Writer
What happens when AI engages with purpose, personality, and persuasion? Writer’s CEO May Habib will explore the dynamic relationship between language and technology, analyzing the effects of generative content on brands, businesses, and more.
The New Era of Search
Edo Liberty, founder and CEO of Pinecone
In a world inundated with data, distinguishing what is significant is crucial. Pinecone’s founder, Edo Liberty, will explain why infrastructure rather than just algorithms may be vital in unlocking the full potential of AI and will highlight emerging trends in smarter, scalable applications.
Intelligence in Motion: The Next Phase of Physical AI
Jeff Cardenas, co-founder and CEO of Apptronik; featuring Raquel Urtasun, founder and CEO of Waabi
Physical AI is on the brink of groundbreaking advancements. Raquel Urtasun, CEO of Waabi, and Jeff Cardenas, CEO of Apptronik, will discuss the key elements needed to infuse intelligence into motion, whether in vehicles or advanced robotics, covering simulations, sensors, and the responsible evolution of next-generation physical tech.

Forging Intelligence for Next-Gen Defense
Ethan Thornton, founder and CEO of Mach Industries
Mach Industries is leading the charge in AI solutions within one of the most complex and contentious fields: defense. CEO Ethan Thornton will provide insights into the challenges of developing technologies in high-stakes environments, where speed and autonomy are paramount, stressing the need to redefine core principles for the upcoming generation of infrastructure.
Advancing the Frontiers of Intelligence
Alex Kendall, co-founder and CEO of Wayve
From autonomous vehicles to adaptive systems, Alex Kendall is transforming how machines perceive and engage with society. The Wayve CEO will elucidate how real-world autonomy is reshaping AI’s trajectory, spotlighting advancements in transportation and their potential future implications.
From Advertisements to Cinema: Creativity through Code
Alejandro Matamala Ortiz, co-founder and chief design officer of Runway
Rather than usurping artists, AI is empowering them. Alejandro Matamala Ortiz, co-founder of Runway, will discuss how machine learning is transforming creative processes, the importance of AI-native tools in visual storytelling, and ushering in a new age of creativity.
Constructing the AI Stack
Thomas Wolf, co-founder and CSO of Hugging Face
By concentrating on models, datasets, ethics, and infrastructure, Hugging Face is at the forefront of responsible AI development. Co-founder and CSO Thomas Wolf will discuss the shifting power landscape within AI, the emergence of community-driven innovations, and the pressing need for transparency as advancements continue to accelerate.
Synthetic Voices: Tangible Effects
Mati Staniszewski, co-founder and CEO of ElevenLabs
From audiobooks to digital avatars, synthetic voice technology is leaving a significant mark. ElevenLabs CEO Mati Staniszewski will explore the nuances of developing AI that emulates human speech and how voice technology is reshaping the creative landscape, accessibility, and entertainment.

Love, Lies, & Algorithms: AI’s Impact on Relationships
Mark Kantor, head of product and innovation at Match Group; Eugenia Kuyda, CEO of Replika; with other speakers to be confirmed.
AI is reshaping how we connect and experience love, often in intricate ways. This panel will explore technology’s role in contemporary relationships, from dating apps to digital companions, and its impact on emotional bonds.
AI in National Security: A Call for Innovation
Sri Chandrasekar, managing partner at Point72; Justin Fanelli, CTO of The Navy; Kathleen Fisher, director at DARPA
From defense research to economic strategies, AI is transforming how nations safeguard and exert influence. Kathleen Fisher from DARPA, Sri Chandrasekar of Point72, and Navy CTO Justin Fanelli will discuss essential AI solutions improving security and their implications for entrepreneurs, investors, and global stability.
Step into the Future of AI at Disrupt 2025
Join insightful conversations that are shaping the future of AI at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. Over two immersive days, the AI Stage will host a rich lineup of influential founders, respected VCs, and leading thinkers—accompanied by four additional innovative stages: Space, Builders, Going Public, and Disrupt—taking place from October 27 to 29 at Moscone West, San Francisco.
Grab your ticket now to benefit from discounts of up to $675 before prices increase after July, and prepare to delve into the next wave of AI innovations that are transforming technology, creativity, security, and much more.



