SF Tech Leaders Converge: A Deep Dive into StrictlyVC’s Must-Attend Event
The San Francisco tech scene is buzzing with anticipation as StrictlyVC’s first event of the year approaches on April 30th at the Sentro Filipino Cultural Center. This isn't just another networking event; it's a crucial gathering for AI innovators, founders seeking funding, and investors looking for the next big thing. For those seeking to connect with the leading minds shaping the future of technology, this event is a non-negotiable addition to your calendar. Expect a stellar lineup of speakers, insightful discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities. This year’s event promises to be particularly valuable given the rapid evolution of the AI landscape and the shifting dynamics of venture capital. We’ll explore why this event is a must-attend and what you can expect from the speakers and discussions.
Why StrictlyVC is the Event to Watch in San Francisco
StrictlyVC has established itself as a premier platform for connecting the most influential figures in the venture capital and startup ecosystems. Unlike larger, more generalized tech conferences, StrictlyVC focuses on fostering meaningful connections and facilitating direct conversations between founders and investors. The event’s intimate setting and curated guest list ensure a high-quality networking experience. This year, the focus on AI and corporate venture capital makes it particularly relevant in the current market climate. The event isn’t just about hearing presentations; it’s about building relationships that can propel your startup forward.
Speaker Spotlight: Nicolas Sauvage of TDK Ventures
Kicking off the event is Nicolas Sauvage, President of TDK Ventures. He’ll be in conversation with Connie Loizos, Editor-in-Chief of GearTech, to discuss the role of corporate venture capital (CVC) in today’s startup ecosystem. Sauvage leads TDK Ventures’ impressive $500 million investment effort focused on early-stage startups, and his insights are highly sought after.
Understanding the Corporate VC Landscape
Corporate VCs are increasingly playing a significant role in funding innovation, but they operate differently than traditional venture firms. Sauvage will shed light on these differences, explaining what motivates CVCs and what founders should prioritize when seeking investment from them. He’ll delve into the strategic considerations that drive CVC investment decisions and offer practical advice for navigating the process. Understanding these nuances can significantly increase your chances of securing funding and building a successful partnership.
Sauvage’s track record speaks for itself. During his tenure, TDK Ventures has invested in 45 startups, including three unicorns: Groq, Ascend Elements, and Silicon Box. This demonstrates TDK’s commitment to supporting disruptive technologies and identifying high-potential companies. Attendees will have ample opportunity to connect with Sauvage and the TDK Ventures team, making this event a prime opportunity for potential investment discussions.
The Future of Trustworthy AI: Campbell Brown and Forum AI
The rise of Artificial Intelligence is undeniable, but with increased reliance on AI platforms comes a growing concern about the veracity of information. Campbell Brown, former CNN host and Head of News at Meta, is tackling this challenge head-on as the co-founder and CEO of Forum AI. She’ll be sharing her vision for building more trustworthy AI platforms.
Vetting, Verifying, and Sustaining AI Information
Brown’s work at Forum AI focuses on developing solutions to vet, verify, and sustain the accuracy of information provided by Large Language Models (LLMs). As more people turn to AI for advice and information, ensuring the reliability of these sources is paramount. Her discussion will explore the technical and ethical challenges involved in building trustworthy AI and the strategies Forum AI is employing to address them. This is a critical conversation for anyone involved in the development or deployment of AI technologies.
The demand for reliable AI is soaring. A recent report by Gartner predicts that by 2026, 30% of organizations will be using AI-powered trust and verification technologies, up from less than 5% in 2023. Brown’s insights will be invaluable for navigating this rapidly evolving landscape.
Replit and the Revolution in Software Construction: Amjad Masad
Amjad Masad, co-founder and CEO of Replit, is at the forefront of a revolution in how software is built. Replit is a collaborative, browser-based IDE that’s empowering developers of all levels to create and deploy applications with unprecedented ease. Masad will share his firsthand experience leading this transformation.
The Rise of Vibe Coding and the Competitive Landscape
The emergence of “vibe coding” – a more fluid and collaborative approach to software development – has gained significant traction, particularly in the Bay Area. Replit has been instrumental in popularizing this approach, and Masad will discuss the benefits and challenges of this new paradigm. However, Replit isn’t operating in a vacuum. The company faces stiff competition from established players like Anthropic and OpenAI, as well as emerging startups. Masad’s talk will offer a glimpse into the future of programming and the strategies Replit is employing to stay ahead of the curve.
The developer landscape is shifting. A Stack Overflow Developer Survey revealed that over 70% of developers are experimenting with AI-powered coding tools. Replit’s success demonstrates the growing demand for tools that simplify and accelerate the software development process.
Don't Miss Out: Register for StrictlyVC Today!
StrictlyVC is more than just an event; it’s an investment in your future. It’s a chance to connect with the people who are shaping the tech industry, gain valuable insights into the latest trends, and potentially secure funding for your startup. With one more speaker announcement still to come, the value of this event will only continue to grow. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of the conversation. Register today and join the leading minds of the San Francisco tech community!
GearTech Events - Stay Connected
- Disrupt 2026: The tech ecosystem, all in one room. Your next round. Your next hire. Your next breakout opportunity. Find it at GearTech Disrupt 2026, where 10,000+ founders, investors, and tech leaders gather for three days of 250+ tactical sessions, powerful introductions, and market-defining innovation. Register now to save up to $400.
- TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026: 1,000+ founders and investors come together for a full day focused on growth, execution, and real-world scaling. Learn from founders and investors who have shaped the industry. Connect with peers navigating similar growth stages. Walk away with tactics you can apply immediately. Offer ends March 13.
San Francisco, CA | October 13-15, 2026
REGISTER NOW