Startup Showdown 2025

STARTUP SHOWDOWN 2025

8 Startups, 1 Stage

The Startup Showdown is where 8 early-stage founders take the stage to pitch in front of thousands of attendees and some of the sharpest investors in the industry—including C.C. Gong of Menlo Ventures and Andy Triedman of Theory Ventures.

You’ll get a front-row seat to the ideas and teams that could shape the next decade of AI. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or builder, this is one of the most anticipated moments of the conference.

Be in the room when it happens.

JUDGE

Andy Triedman

Partner

JUDGE

C.C. Gong

Principal

FINALISTS!

Click on a STARTUP to learn more

Partner

Hack Day Winner

Partner

How it works:

Our Program Committee has selected 8 standout startups to pitch live at The AI Conference 2025. Each one was chosen for their bold ideas, technical ambition, and potential to shape the future of AI.

Here’s what to expect at the Startup Showdown:

• 8 startups. 4-minute pitches. Real-time scores and judge feedback
• Live audience voting for the People’s Choice Award
• A front-row look at emerging innovation—before it hits the headlines
• Finalists competing for top honors, including the People’s Choice and Top Startup Awards

Thank you to everyone who applied to the Startup Showdown! Submissions are now closed. We’re thrilled by all the innovation you shared—stay tuned as we announce the finalists soon!

Call For Startups Submission Form

First Name

Last Name

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Title

Company

Website

Funding Level

Description

Give us your elevator pitch

EARLY STAGE AI STARTUPS