TechCrunch is returning to the Bay Area with its highly anticipated Sessions: AI event, bringing together the brightest minds in artificial intelligence at UC Berkeley's Zellerbach Hall on June 5, 2025.
The one-day conference arrives at a pivotal moment in the AI industry's evolution, with transformative technologies reshaping business landscapes and investment priorities. After a multi-year hiatus from topic-focused events, TechCrunch recognized the need to gather key stakeholders as AI continues its rapid advancement across sectors.
Attendees will hear from an impressive lineup of speakers including Anthropic co-founder and Chief Science Officer Jared Kaplan, who will share insights on how AI will transform human-computer interaction and discuss Anthropic's efforts to build superintelligent systems. Other notable speakers include executives from Google DeepMind, OpenAI, ElevenLabs, and Databricks, alongside investors from Accel, CapitalG, and Khosla Ventures.
The event's agenda focuses on three key areas: the startup ecosystem, AI infrastructure, and practical applications. Sessions will cover strategies for pitching, building, and scaling AI-powered businesses, while highlighting where investors are directing their funds. With AI investments soaring 62% to $110 billion in 2024 despite overall startup funding declines, the conference provides timely guidance on what venture capitalists are looking for beyond the AI hype.
Beyond the main stage presentations, attendees can participate in smaller breakout sessions led by industry experts. These include OpenAI's Hao Sang discussing resources for startups, Cohere's Yann Stoneman exploring secure generative AI for regulated enterprises, and Google Cloud's Iliana Quinonez examining collaborative AI agents.
The event also features an Expo Hall where startups can showcase their innovations to potential investors, partners, and clients. Additionally, "Sessions: AI Week" (June 1-7) includes side events hosted by companies like Toyota Ventures, offering extended networking opportunities throughout Berkeley.
With early bird tickets starting at $292 and special discounts available, TechCrunch Sessions: AI represents a unique opportunity for anyone involved in the AI space to gain insights, make connections, and stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry.