Key facts
- StrictlyVC will host an event in New York City on September 10.
- The event will be held at Ideal Glass Studios in the West Village.
- Tickets are priced at $180 for general admission.
- Speakers will include Craig Shapiro of Collaborative Fund and Tristan Walker of Heirloom Craft.
- The event aims to foster conversation and networking within the startup and VC community.
StrictlyVC is returning to New York City on September 10 for an event focused on the city's startup community. The event, to be held at Ideal Glass Studios in the West Village, will feature discussions on building community, leadership, and brand strategy in the current tech landscape, with a particular focus on AI's influence.
According to a Tech:NYC report, New York startups raised $1.13 billion in seed funding in the first half of 2026, an increase from $1.06 billion in the first half of 2025. Average seed rounds also grew from $5.4 million to $6.64 million. Overall, New York startups secured $16 billion in the first half of 2026, nearing the $19.1 billion raised throughout 2025.
Programming will include a session titled "The Business of Belonging" with Craig Shapiro and Connie Loizos, exploring the value of community and investment opportunities at the intersection of technology, fandom, and real-world connection. Tristan Walker will also discuss his experiences building influential consumer startups and his evolving approach to leadership and brand-building in the AI era.
StrictlyVC events are known for fostering candid conversations and providing access to founders, VCs, and dealmakers. Past speakers have included prominent figures such as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana, and Haun Ventures founder Katie Haun. General admission tickets for the September 10 event are available for $180.