2025 VC Market Update

DLA Piper was pleased to host a panel with Accelerate Yale on the trends, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead in the venture capital landscape.

The fireside chat was led by DLA Piper partner Adam Brenner, who moderated a distinguished panel featuring:

• Nicholas Chirls, Co-Founder and Partner, Asylum Ventures
• Molly Fowler, General Partner, Dorm Room Fund
• Ishan Sinha, Partner, Point72 Ventures

• Investor Appetite is Increasing – There’s growing energy in the market, and while AI remains dominant, investors are showing renewed interest in diverse opportunities.

• Early-Stage Funding is Rebounding – Seed and Series A investments are picking up, signaling a healthier environment for early-stage startups compared to later-stage funding.

• M&A Strategies are Evolving – With tougher IPO conditions, VCs are looking for creative exit strategies, emphasizing flexibility in M&A and alternative liquidity options.

• AI Still Drives Fundraising – Having AI in your story makes it easier to raise capital, but investors are also open to broader opportunities beyond AI.

• Stay True to Your Narrative – Don’t tweak your company’s story just to attract investors in 2025; instead, refine your messaging and strategy to align with your long-term vision.

• Build a Strategic Investor Network – Curate a strong wishlist of investors and leverage your existing supporters to get warm introductions.