Do startups still need Silicon Valley? Hear from the founders and funders challenging old assumptions at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

As the global startup ecosystem gathers in San Francisco for TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, set to take place from October 27-29 at Moscone West, a fundamental question echoes among founders and funders alike: Does a Silicon Valley address still provide an indispensable edge for emerging companies? With over 10,000 startup and VC leaders converging for this landmark event, the evolving dynamics of access, geography, and opportunity are more pertinent than ever.

This critical discourse will unfold on the Builders Stage, featuring a powerhouse panel comprising Anh-Tho Chuong of Lago, David Hall from Revolution, and Heather Doshay of SignalFire. This session is poised to be a must-attend for anyone navigating the complexities of scaling a startup in today’s diverse and interconnected landscape.

The conversation around the necessity of Silicon Valley has gained significant traction. As distributed teams become the norm, regional hubs flourish, and global fundraising becomes increasingly accessible, founders are consistently re-evaluating whether their geographical location truly dictates their success. Is the Bay Area still the sole gateway to crucial opportunities, or has the playing field truly leveled for innovators worldwide?

This insightful discussion will bring together seasoned startup veterans and investors who possess a unique vantage point, having successfully built and backed companies across varied regions, both within the United States and internationally. They will delve into the contemporary definition of access in 2025, analyze how remote collaboration has transformed in the post-pandemic era, and pinpoint where the most significant opportunities lie for the next generation of founders.

The esteemed panelists include:

Anh-Tho Chuong: As the co-founder of Lago, a YC-backed platform revolutionizing open-source billing trusted by leading AI companies such as Mistral and Together, Anh-Tho brings invaluable experience in scaling businesses across continents, drawing from her tenures at Qonto, Weebly, and McKinsey.

David Hall: A managing partner at Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund, David has dedicated the past decade to championing the idea that groundbreaking companies can emerge from anywhere. His work at Revolution focuses on investing in and supporting innovative founders in regions often overlooked by traditional coastal venture capitalists, building a diverse national portfolio.

Heather Doshay: As a partner at SignalFire and former VP of People at Webflow, Heather is an expert in building people-first organizations in a dynamic environment. She offers deep insights into the shifting hiring landscape for startups beyond Silicon Valley and the strategies required to cultivate high-performing teams in a remote-first world.

Whether you are building your venture in a bustling metropolis, a quaint town, or anywhere in between, this session promises to offer a fresh and pragmatic perspective on the true origins of startup success. Attendees will gain clarity on what factors remain critical, what no longer holds the same weight, and effective strategies for expanding their network regardless of their physical location.

Do not miss this pivotal panel live on the Builders Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, taking place October 27-29 at Moscone West in San Francisco. Secure your place now to join this vital conversation and gain unparalleled insights into the future of the startup world. Tickets are in high demand, and prices will increase after July, so register now to save up to $675 and ensure your participation.