Join us at the upcoming Disrupt 2025 event, taking place from October 27-29 at Moscone West in San Francisco. This year, we are excited to present an engaging discussion on the evolving landscape of startup funding, moving beyond the conventional venture capital framework.
At the Builders Stage, industry leaders will share their insights on how entrepreneurs can explore diverse funding avenues that align with their unique visions. This session promises to be a treasure trove of knowledge for founders looking to navigate the complex world of capital acquisition.
Today’s entrepreneurs have access to a myriad of funding options. However, understanding which path to take can be daunting. In this enlightening session, you will hear from Erik Allebest, the CEO and co-founder of a leading online chess platform; Gale Wilkinson, a prominent figure in early-stage investments; and Kay Makishi, a seasoned investor with a wealth of experience in family office funding. Each speaker will provide valuable perspectives on how to secure financing while maintaining control over your business direction and equity structure.
Whether you are self-funding, engaging with family offices, or leveraging angel investor networks, this discussion will dissect current trends, highlight common pitfalls, and guide you in selecting the funding strategy that best suits your aspirations.
Erik Allebest transformed his college hobby into a thriving online chess community, amassing over 200 million users without relying on venture capital. His journey exemplifies the potential of bootstrapping and serves as an inspiration for aspiring founders.
Gale Wilkinson has made significant contributions to the startup ecosystem, with 50 personal angel investments and over $80 million directed towards early-stage companies. As an advocate for diversity in funding, she is a trusted resource for entrepreneurs seeking capital that aligns with their values.
Kay Makishi offers a unique perspective as an investor at a family office based in New York, with experience in both U.S. and Japanese markets. Her insights into how affluent individuals and families invest in startups for meaningful impact rather than just financial returns are invaluable.
There are numerous pathways to secure your next round of funding. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how founders are innovating their funding strategies and achieving success. Be sure to attend this session that highlights the new ways of funding and thriving in today’s competitive landscape.
Secure your pass for Disrupt 2025 today and take advantage of significant ticket savings while connecting with over 10,000 leaders in the startup and investment community.
Event Details: San Francisco | October 27-29, 2025
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