TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is set to take place from October 27 to 29 at Moscone West in San Francisco, drawing over 10,000 founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts. Among the 250+ industry leaders scheduled to speak, a standout session on the Builders Stage will feature Charles Hudson of Precursor Ventures and Wesley Chan of FPV Ventures. This discussion aims to demystify the challenges of securing initial funding when a startup is still in its conceptual phase.
The Significance of the Builders Stage Conversation
This candid and practical dialogue will delve into the essentials of obtaining your first institutional investment. Topics will include crafting a compelling narrative and establishing trust even in the absence of tangible traction. Hudson and Chan will share the key attributes they seek in early-stage founders, highlight warning signs that raise concerns, and discuss common pitfalls that first-time entrepreneurs encounter during the fundraising process.
Emphasizing the Founder Over the Product
In the realms of pre-seed and seed funding, investments often occur before a product is developed, a user base is established, or any market traction is achieved. Consequently, investors are placing their bets on the founder’s potential rather than the business itself. Few are more adept at making these early-stage assessments than Hudson and Chan. Collectively, they have supported hundreds of founders at the nascent stages of their ventures, often before a single line of code has been written or a pitch deck has been finalized.
Charles Hudson’s Perspective
As the managing partner of Precursor Ventures, Charles Hudson has invested in over 400 companies and supported more than 450 founders. He is renowned for backing individuals with bold ideas and unique perspectives. Hudson emphasizes the importance of believing in the founder’s narrative and adaptability, stating, The earlier you invest, the more important it is to believe in the founder’s narrative and ability to adapt. It’s not just about solving a problem — it’s about whether I believe you’re the one to do it.
Wesley Chan’s Approach
Wesley Chan, co-founder and managing partner at FPV Ventures, is recognized for making early investments in companies that have redefined their industries. A former Google executive, Chan played a pivotal role in creating Google Analytics and Google Voice before transitioning into venture capital. He has backed unicorns such as Canva, Robinhood, and Plaid. Chan’s investment philosophy focuses on identifying mission-driven founders capable of transforming modest beginnings into lasting impact.
Practical Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Whether you are currently seeking funding or planning to do so in the future, this session promises to provide actionable insights on navigating the early stages of venture capital with clarity and confidence. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of what investors look for in founders, how to effectively communicate their vision, and strategies to avoid common fundraising mistakes.
In addition to this session, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 will feature over 200 sessions across five industry stages, offering a wealth of knowledge and networking opportunities for attendees. Register now to secure your spot and take advantage of early bird savings before prices increase after September 26.
