So You Have an AI Idea? What Founders Wish They Knew Before Launching【ERA × NEC X】
Are you an AI founder looking to build the next big thing — or an early-stage investor searching for the next breakout opportunity?
This event is your chance to discover exactly what it takes to launch an AI startup successfully — and what experienced founders and investors wish they knew before starting out.
Join us for an evening of:
📖 Exclusive insights from top investors, founders, and technologists about the challenges and lessons of launching an AI startup.
💡 A rare chance to learn about the Elev X! program — and ask anything you want during a dedicated AMA with NEC X team members.
📣 A chance to pitch your startup — step up and showcase your idea and traction to investors and ecosystem leaders!
🍣 Networking over sushi and drinks with a curated community of founders, investors, and ecosystem builders.
About the Host
- Elev X!
Elev X! invests in early-stage startups. Backed by NEC, a global tech company with over $20B in annual revenue, a presence in more than 50 countries, and 250+ subsidiaries, provides holistic, hands-on support with world-class resources that propel entrepreneurs from idea to impact.
Elve X! Ignite Venture Studio Program Application is opening till June 30!
- ERA
Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator (ERA) is New York City's leading technology accelerator and early-stage venture capital fund.
🔥 Fireside Chat
🔥 Fireside Chat🔥 "So You Have an AI Idea? What Founders Wish They Knew Before Launching"
Join our Fireside Chat with
Murat Aktihanoglu - ERA / Managing Partner
Manny Cerniglia - Flyhound / CEO & Co-Founder
Srimat Chakradhar - NEC Laboratories America
Naoto Mizuguchi - NEC X / CFO
We also invite Elev X! founders to the stage so you can ask anything about the Elev X! experience to alumni founders!
Karan Shah - Bazzuka AI / Founder and CEO
🗓️ Agenda
5:30pm~5:45pm Registration & Networking
5:45pm~5:50pm Welcome
5:50pm~6:10pm Fireside Chat
6:10pm~6:20pm AMA
6:20pm~6:40pm Pitch
6:40pm~8:00pm Networking with sushi & drink
🤝 Connect with Founders & Investors Who Drive Innovation!
This event brings together bold AI founders and early-stage investors in one room — offering a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, spark partnerships, and build meaningful relationships that move startups forward and help investors discover what’s next.
✨ This Event Offers You 4 Key Opportunities - S, P, I & N!
🔹 Startup-Centric
Engage with fellow founders, gain valuable insights from seasoned investors, and connect with industry experts from leading companies.
🔹 Present Your Startup
Showcase your vision and traction in conversations with investors and ecosystem leaders.
🔹 Investor-Connected
Engage with a curated network of active investors to explore funding opportunities — connecting with angel investors and early-stage VCs who are scouting promising AI startups and committed to building long-term partnerships from day one.
🔹 Networking
Build meaningful relationships with highly curated participants, including investors, mentors, and fellow founders, fostering potential collaborations and investments.