Meet the minds shaping AI: TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 AI Stage revealed

San Francisco, CA – The highly anticipated TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is set to ignite the future of technology with its dedicated AI Stage, promising a deep dive into the innovations transforming industries, user experiences, and the very fabric of society. Scheduled for October 27-29 at Moscone West in San Francisco, this landmark event will feature an unparalleled lineup of visionaries, investors, and pioneers who are at the forefront of AI development.

For an AI tools listing website like Proaitools, this event is a crucial indicator of upcoming trends and breakthroughs. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into what it takes to secure funding in the rapidly evolving AI landscape, with top VCs revealing their strategies for identifying the next wave of disruptive founders. The agenda promises groundbreaking discussions from leaders representing some of the most visionary startups, including Apptronik, ElevenLabs, Hugging Face, Runway, Wonder Dynamics, Writer, and Wayve – companies actively redefining the future of technology.

Introducing the AI Stage Lineup

The AI Stage is meticulously curated to cover the most impactful areas of artificial intelligence. Here’s a glimpse into the dynamic conversations awaiting participants:

Betting on the Next Wave: What VCs Want in AI Startups

While speakers are yet to be announced for this session, it promises a candid conversation with leading VCs. They will share crucial insights on what captures their attention in AI startups, how they approach defensibility amidst the rise of AI monopolies, and the essential criteria founders must meet to secure the next crucial term sheet.

Creative Machines and Where AI Meets Imagination

Nikola Todorovic, co-founder and CEO of Wonder Dynamics, will lead a panel of creative technologists. This session will explore how AI is transcending its role in workflow optimization to actively co-create art, media, and experiences, blurring the lines between human artistry and algorithmic innovation.

Writing the Future with AI?

May Habib, co-founder and CEO of Writer, will delve into the evolving relationship between language and machines. She will discuss the implications of generative content for brand identity, business strategies, and the broader communication landscape.

Why the Next Frontier Is Search

Edo Liberty, founder and CEO of Pinecone, will highlight why infrastructure, rather than just algorithms, is the crucial unlock in AI. This session will explore upcoming advancements in powering smarter, scalable applications.

Intelligence in Motion and the Future of Physical AI

Jeff Cardenas, co-founder and CEO of Apptronik, and Raquel Urtasun, founder and CEO of Waabi, will explore the breakthroughs required to bring intelligence into the physical world, from autonomous vehicles to humanoid robots. The discussion will cover everything from simulation to safe scaling.

Building Intelligence for Modern Defense

Ethan Thornton, founder and CEO of Mach Industries, will shed light on the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into the complex defense sector, emphasizing the importance of speed and autonomy in high-stakes environments.

Driving Intelligence

Alex Kendall, co-founder and CEO of Wayve, will discuss how real-world autonomy is shaping the next chapter of AI, with insights into how advancements in self-driving systems can unlock progress across various other domains.

From Ads to Films: Creating with Code

Alejandro Matamala Ortiz, co-founder and Chief Design Officer at Runway, will illustrate how creative work is being reshaped by machine learning, emphasizing that AI tools rearm creatives rather than replace them, fostering a new era of visual storytelling.

Shaping the AI Stack

Thomas Wolf, co-founder and CSO of Hugging Face, will discuss the evolving dynamics of the AI ecosystem, focusing on community-led innovation and the delicate balance between rapid progress and responsible development.

Synthetic Voices and Real Impact

Mati Staniszewski, co-founder and CEO of ElevenLabs, will explore the rising influence of synthetic speech in areas like audiobooks and avatars, and how voice technology is revolutionizing creative industries, accessibility, and entertainment.

Love, Lies, & Algorithms: The Truth about AI in Matters of the Heart

Mark Kantor, Head of Product and Innovation at Match Group, and Eugenia Kuyda, CEO of Replika, will lead a discussion on how AI is reshaping modern relationships, from dating apps to digital companions, and the broader implications for human connection.

AI and National Security in the High-Stakes Race to Innovate

Sri Chandrasekar, Managing Partner at Point72; Justin Fanelli, CTO of The Navy; and Kathleen Fisher, Director at DARPA, will delve into the critical role of AI in defense and security. They will discuss cutting-edge breakthroughs and their significance for entrepreneurs, investors, and global stability.

Secure Your Spot at the Forefront of AI Innovation

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is more than just a conference; it’s a nexus where the future of AI is actively shaped. Beyond the AI Stage, attendees can explore four other industry stages: Space, Builders, Going Public, and Disrupt.

For those eager to be part of these transformative conversations, it’s advised to secure your ticket now. Early registrants can save up to $675 before prices increase after July. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the minds driving the next wave of AI innovation across technology, creativity, security, and beyond.