

TechCrunch Startup News
TechCrunch
Listen to select TechCrunch articles on startups coverage—who's raising, who's exiting, who's changing the world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 5min
Female-founded semiconductor AI startup SixSense raises $8.5M
A groundbreaking startup is shaking up semiconductor manufacturing with AI technology. With $8.5 million in fresh funding, this innovative company is revolutionizing the way chip makers detect defects in real time. By streamlining outdated inspection processes, they're promising significant efficiency gains for manufacturers. The support from seasoned investors fuels their mission to enhance quality and production in the tech industry.

Aug 1, 2025 • 5min
AIR lands $23M to bring its eVTOLs to the US
An Israel-based startup has successfully raised $23 million to ramp up production of its eVTOL vehicles. The discussion focuses on their innovative approach to both piloted and uncrewed aircraft. The team delves into market expansion strategies, competitive dynamics, and the regulatory challenges they face. With ambitions to enter the U.S. market, their plans promise exciting advancements in urban air mobility.

8 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 4min
How 2 UC Berkeley dropouts raised $28 million for their AI marketing automation startup
Two UC Berkeley dropouts turned the tech world upside down by raising $28 million for their AI marketing automation startup, Conversation. Their journey is a thrilling tale of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. From identifying market gaps to developing a cutting-edge product, they navigate the challenges of the highly competitive landscape. The vibe is reminiscent of a Silicon Valley comedy, but their success story is anything but fictional!

Jul 31, 2025 • 6min
Fed up with brands that use corn syrup and skim milk, this mother developed her own ‘clean’ baby formula
Discover the journey of a mother who created Nara Organics, an innovative baby formula made entirely from organic ingredients. Dive into the challenges of entering a market dominated by lower-quality products and learn about the rigorous safety standards the brand adheres to. The discussion also touches on successful funding initiatives and the company's dedication to social responsibility, including heartfelt stories from parents who support the movement toward healthier infant nutrition.

Jul 31, 2025 • 8min
This founder left Silicon Valley to challenge U.S. defense supremacy from Athens, and investors are paying attention
A former engineering manager has moved from Silicon Valley to Greece to tackle defense challenges, founding a startup focused on innovative solutions like solar-powered surveillance towers and concealed sea drones. The discussion dives into his motivations driven by geopolitical factors, the struggle of breaking into the European defense market, and the importance of technology and personal connections in securing contracts. This insight offers a fascinating look at how startups can influence cross-border defense collaboration.

Jul 30, 2025 • 4min
Index Ventures’ Jahanvi Sardana shares the truth about TAM and what founders should focus on instead
Jahanvi Sardana addresses the misconception around Total Addressable Market (TAM) for startups. She points out that many successful companies initially emerged from seemingly nonexistent markets. Sardana uses a surfing metaphor to explain market navigation, categorizing them into known, emerging, and invisible. This insight encourages founders to focus on understanding their market landscape rather than just chasing TAM numbers, which can help attract potential investors.

6 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 6min
This industrial AI startup is winning over customers by saying it won’t get acquired
Discover how C-Vector, an industrial AI startup, is navigating the competitive acquisition landscape by instilling customer trust. The founders emphasize their commitment to independence and innovation, focusing on tailored software solutions for key industries. Learn about their strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing operational efficiency while addressing potential challenges in customer relationships.

5 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 9min
How a Y Combinator food delivery app used TikTok to soar in the App Store ... and Chime backer Lauren Kolodny bets on AI
Discover how a food delivery app skyrocketed on TikTok, using engaging video content to capture users' attention and tackle competition. The founders faced technical challenges, but leveraged AI to streamline operations. Meanwhile, venture capital insights reveal how an AI startup is revolutionizing estate settlement, highlighting the inefficiencies of traditional methods and showcasing the potential of technology to transform financial services.

6 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 8min
Preston Thorpe is a software engineer at a San Fransisco startup. He’s also serving his eleventh year in prison.
Dive into the intriguing journey of a software engineer serving time in prison while working remotely. Discover how Maine's innovative rehabilitation program supports incarcerated individuals in developing their skills. The discussion highlights personal struggles, the redemptive power of work, and how technology can pave the way for reintegration into society. It's a captivating look at second chances and the transformative impact of a supportive environment.

4 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 8min
Mission Barns is betting that animal-free pork fat will make artificial meat delicious ... and more
A pioneering startup has made waves by developing the first-ever animal-free cultured pork fat, gaining USDA approval. This innovation aims to enhance the flavor and health benefits of meat alternatives, potentially reshaping the market. Meanwhile, iRocket is facing hurdles as it attempts to go public with a $400 million deal, despite being low on cash. The challenges in the competitive space launch industry could have significant implications for their future success.


