Other highlights included M13 partner Anna Barber's capture of Melinda French Gates' statement on stage, viewing venture capital as a social progress engine in the U.S. Andreessen Horowitz’s Chris Dixon expressed concerns over the control of the internet by a handful of companies, referring to it as a "Faustian bargain." First Resonance CEO Karan Talati noted the emphasis on hardtech at the summit, reflecting opportunities in manufacturing, aerospace, and energy.
Key takeaways:
- The Upfront Summit, an invite-only VC conference, took place in Los Angeles with notable attendees including Lady Gaga, Cameron Diaz, Katy Perry, and Novak Djokovic.
- Keith Rabois, managing director at Khosla Ventures, defended his decision to move away from San Francisco, citing the city's lack of work ethic compared to other cities like New York.
- Melinda French Gates spoke at the event, stating her belief in venture capital as a driving force for social progress in the United States.
- First-time attendee Karan Talati, CEO of First Resonance, noted the emphasis on hardtech at the summit, highlighting the potential opportunities in manufacturing, aerospace, and energy.