Investor Insights on Web3 & AI: What VCs Are Really Looking For

During NY Techweek, we brought together Christine Lu Hong (Techstars), Fernanda Sesto (Unshackled Ventures), Elena Obukhova (Supermoon Ventures), and moderator Shweta Shrivastava for a conversation on how venture investing is shifting across AI and Web3.

The panel agreed that VCs are not backing ideas. They are backing the people behind them. It is not about flashy decks or even current traction, but about founder conviction, self-awareness, and the ability to execute in tough environments.

They spoke about the importance of timing and how successful founders avoid hype. Instead, they focus on real-world problems and build with clarity and urgency. As investor models shift, the panel highlighted how long-term thinking, team alignment, and resilience matter more than early traction.

Hosted by Supermoon, in collaboration with Sparx Labs, Salesforce, WeWork, Draper University, FemBuild Collective, and VIA, as part of NY Techweek.