Two more heavy hitters join StrictlyVC’s star-studded lineup in Menlo Park

Mark Your Calendars: A Night to Remember in Silicon Valley

June 18 is shaping up to be a truly unforgettable evening, and we couldn’t be more excited to share the lineup with you. Ali Partovi, the legendary investor and entrepreneur behind Neo, will join forces with Russell Kaplan, president of Cognition, for a captivating discussion at our upcoming StrictlyVC event in Menlo Park. This is going to be one of those nights where groundbreaking ideas meet real-world execution—and you don’t want to miss it.

Ali Partovi and Neo: Spotting the Next Generation of Tech Titans

When Ali Partovi steps onto the stage, you know you’re in for something special. Known for his sharp eye for talent and innovation, Partovi has been shaking things up with Neo, a platform and fund unlike anything else in Silicon Valley. Unlike traditional incubators or accelerators, Neo takes a proactive approach, identifying rising stars in engineering and leadership before anyone else even notices. If there’s anyone equipped to spot tomorrow’s tech giants, it’s Partovi. His mission feels less like following trends and more like setting them—and Neo is his canvas.

Image Credits: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg/Getty Images

Russell Kaplan and Cognition: The Accelerated Journey of AI Startups

Russell Kaplan, the president of Cognition—a coding assistant company valued at $4 billion and backed by Neo—will bring a fresh perspective to the stage. Together, Partovi and Kaplan offer a fascinating look into the symbiotic relationship between investors and founders. As Cognition navigates the rapid highs and lows typical of today’s AI startups, their story becomes a microcosm of what countless other ventures experience on a larger scale. It’s not just about success; it’s about learning, adapting, and thriving amidst uncertainty.

Baiju Bhatt: From Fintech to Space Energy

Adding even more star power to the evening is Baiju Bhatt, the Robinhood co-founder whose latest venture, Aetherflux, is redefining what’s possible in space technology. Based in San Carlos, California, Aetherflux recently raised $50 million in Series A funding and aims to launch a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites capable of collecting and transmitting solar energy directly to ground stations. Talk about thinking big! Baiju’s transition from fintech to space exploration is nothing short of inspiring, and investors are clearly taking notice.

Image Credits: Steve Jennings/Getty Images

Why These Conversations Matter

At StrictlyVC, we believe in bridging the gap between bold ideas and tangible results. These aren’t just abstract theories being tossed around—they’re real-world innovations transforming industries as we speak. Whether it’s Partovi’s systematic approach to talent discovery, Kaplan’s work at the forefront of AI, or Baiju’s audacious leap into space energy, each story contributes to the ever-evolving tapestry of modern technology. That’s why we’re proud to host events like this—to connect visionaries with the people who care most about understanding where tech is headed.

Co-Hosted by Mayfield: A Partnership Worth Celebrating

A huge thanks goes out to Mayfield, the iconic early-stage venture firm co-hosting this evening with us. Their partnership makes gatherings like these possible, allowing us to bring together some of the brightest minds in the industry under one roof. The venue? None other than The Quad, located right in the heart of Sand Hill Road—the epicenter of innovation. It’s the perfect setting for meaningful conversations, casual networking, and maybe even a drink or two.

Stay Tuned for More

This event promises to deliver everything you’d expect from a StrictlyVC gathering: insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and plenty of food and drinks to keep the energy flowing. Registration is open, but seats are filling fast, so secure yours today.

And if you’re looking for more ways to stay ahead in the world of AI, don’t forget to mark your calendars for TechCrunch Sessions: AI on June 5 in Berkeley. Featuring speakers from OpenAI, Anthropic, and Cohere, it’s shaping up to be another must-attend event.

Register now and get ready for a night that will leave you inspired and connected. Silicon Valley doesn’t get much better than this.