Untapping LA: Highlights & Takeaways from LA Tech Week 2023
During LA Tech Week 2023, Untapped Ventures actively participated in the dynamic Los Angeles startup ecosystem, contributing to over 750 events hosted by a16z. Our team played a pivotal role in facilitating engaging experiences and insightful discussions, contributing to the celebration of LA’s thriving startup scene.
We initiated our LA Tech Week participation with three notable events:
June 7: Founder + VC Mastermind Experience + Happy Hour: We hosted a fun party with a live DJ, tacos, and drinks and a Mastermind session I led with 50 founders, which was the main highlight of the night. This event provided a supportive environment for participants to discuss personal and business challenges, gain insights, and establish lasting relationships in a lively setting.
June 8: Investor Workout + Fitness Challenge at the Rings at Santa Monica Beach: In collaboration with our portfolio company, Fitcoin, we co-hosted a fitness event. Fitcoin CEO & Founder, Alex Tima, guided founders and investors through a workout, demonstrating Fitcoin’s technology. This event provided a unique opportunity for networking and bonding.
June 9: Unicorns Sightings on the Eastside: We hosted a gathering with the City of Burbank for visionary founders, esteemed VCs, and government representatives. The event facilitated discussions about the future of entrepreneurship and venture capital in LA’s Eastside, dubbed the Upstart Valley, fostering networking opportunities and collaborations, and reinforcing our commitment to a vibrant startup community.
In addition to hosting events, we eagerly participated in several significant events during LA Tech Week 2023, each offering unique insights and engaging discussions.
Watertower Ventures Emerging and Emerged Managers Breakfast: We joined industry leaders, limited partners, and emerging managers to discuss emerging trends and investment opportunities in LA’s venture capital landscape.
Dispelling The Myths Of Corporate Venture Capital: We participated in an investor panel with esteemed Corporate Venture Capitalists (CVCs) such as Allstate Strategic Ventures, Avanta Ventures, and MassMutual Ventures. The event clarified misconceptions about CVCs and provided a comprehensive view of the corporate venture landscape.
The Future of AI: Pioneering Responsible Innovation: Hosted by Optimatik, this event emphasized the importance of responsible AI innovation. It facilitated discussions on AI integration, ethical considerations, and societal impact.
a16z & Stonks: Gaming & Entertainment Demo Day Hosted by Google: We attended this exclusive event showcasing six innovative founders leading the future of entertainment and media.
LA Tech Week 2023 was a remarkable experience, providing opportunities to connect with the startup community and contribute to advancing the LA tech ecosystem.
Riding on the momentum of LA Tech Week, we hosted an AI Pitchfest a couple of weeks later. This exclusive event showcased the hottest AI startups from Los Angeles, with six world-class early-stage founders competing for a prize package of $50K+ investments.
Exciting times lie ahead, and we invite you to stay updated with the latest news and events from Untapped Ventures, check out our website, and follow us on social media, to be the first to know about upcoming opportunities and future engagements that will fuel your startup journey.