Alpha In the Age of AI Investor-Field Trip: Tbilisi, Georgia
19-20 June 2025
Step back from the chaos of today's startup landscape and gain fresh perspective in Georgia's creative capital. Join fellow MENA investors and veteran Silicon Valley VCs for an two day refresh in Georgia and an exclusive investor summit on June 20th in a striking location.
Reserve Your Spot
Easy Access: Direct Flights from the Gulf
Sharjah
SHJ-TBS: 8:10 → 11:25 Air Arabia, Direct
Dubai
DXB-TBS: 5:15 → 8:40 FlyDubai, Direct
Abu Dhabi
AUH-TBS: 9:15 → 12:45 Air Arabia, Direct
Other Gulf
RUH-TBS: 7:25 → 11:45 Flynas, Direct
DOH-TBS: 8:20 → 12:40 Qatar Airways, Direct
June 19: Georgian Startup Summit
Morning Exploration (10:00-13:30)
Optional morning to explore ancient Tbilisi or join startups in workshops for early arrivals
VIP Networking Lunch (13:30-15:00)
Connect with fellow investors and local startup leaders
Startup World Cup (17:00)
Watch top Georgian startups compete with VC judges from Silicon Valley and the region
VIP Networking Dinner (20:00)
Join local VIPs, visiting investors, and select founders for dinner, drinks, and music
June 20: VC & Investor Day

Veteran VC Roundtable (10:00-13:30)
Navigate rough seas with Silicon Valley veterans
Investor Luncheon (13:30-15:30)
Network with regional investors and family offices
Founder-Investor Garden Party (16:00-17:30)
Meet inspiring founders in a relaxed setting
Meet the Silicon Valley VC Veterans

Alpha in the Age of AI Framing: VC Roundtable

AI is reshaping markets at unprecedented speed and scale—sending shockwaves through venture capital, tech investing, and beyond. Join two veteran Silicon Valley VCs with global portfolios and billion-dollar exits as they cut through the noise to map out what’s really happening. Having ridden previous waves—and endured the crashes—they bring hard-earned perspective to today’s upheaval. Connect with thoughtful international investors. Engage directly with seasoned GPs who’ve seen the full arc of VC and tech cycles. Walk away with actionable insights to navigate this era of volatility and opportunity. AI Era Impact Explore how the rapid advancement of AI is reshaping VC math and evolving best practices in investment strategies. Extended Holding Periods Discuss the implications of longer private company lifecycles and the growing overlap between venture capital and private equity. Crypto-Native Capital Analyze how crypto-native capital is converging with traditional VC models and creating new investment paradigms. Shifting Exit Dynamics Examine changing exit landscapes and what they signal for the next era of venture capital returns. Reserve Your Spot

Bill Reichert
Silicon Valley veteran with decades of experience in navigating market shifts and technological revolutions. Known for his strategic insights and ability to identify transformative startups.
Sheel Mohnot
Global fintech leader who has successfully guided numerous financial technology ventures to success. His expertise spans traditional finance and emerging digital financial solutions.
Why Tbilisi? The Perfect Investor Retreat
Strategic Location
Positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Tbilisi offers a unique vantage point for understanding emerging market dynamics and cross-regional opportunities.
Emerging Tech Hub
Georgia's capital is rapidly developing into a vibrant startup ecosystem with innovative entrepreneurs leveraging the country's strategic position and talent pool.
Cultural Rich Environment
The city's blend of ancient heritage and forward-thinking attitude creates an inspiring backdrop for strategic discussions and fresh perspectives.
Neutral Meeting Ground
A welcoming destination that brings together investors from MENA, Europe, and beyond in a comfortable setting away from routine distractions.
Experience the Historic City
Explore ancient Tbilisi during your morning free time on June 19th. The city's rich history spans 1,500 years, offering a perfect blend of European and Asian influences across its distinctive architecture, cuisine, and culture.
Startup World Cup: National Competition
Elite Competition
Witness Georgia's most promising startups compete on an international stage, presenting innovative solutions across various sectors.
Expert Judging Panel
Silicon Valley VCs and regional investment leaders will evaluate each startup based on market potential, innovation, team capability, and scalability.
Investment Discovery
Identify promising investment opportunities before they reach broader markets, with direct access to founders after the competition.
Investor Packages
Investor Pass ($199.00)
VIP investor passes to all official events, including the Startup World Cup competition, VC Roundtable, and VC Networking Events (excludes Accommodation).
Accommodation + Pass ($857.00) - (Spaces Limited)
VIP investor passes to Startup World Cup competition, VC Roundtable, and VC Networking Events including a Two Nights Accommodation in a 4+ star hotel (June 19-20, 2025) with breakfast included, ensuring comfort throughout your investment retreat.
Concierge Service
Dedicated support from the Startup Connect Georgia team to ensure a seamless experience during your stay in Tbilisi.
June 21-22: Extended Opportunities
Global Tech Weekend Tbilisi
Continue your Georgian tech immersion with this community-led event featuring additional startups, tech demonstrations, and networking opportunities. Register directly through the GTW website at https://gtwt.ge/
Cultural Exploration
Extend your stay to experience Georgia's renowned hospitality, cuisine, and natural beauty. From mountain vistas to ancient wineries, the country offers numerous opportunities for meaningful experiences beyond the business agenda.
One-on-One Meetings
The Startup Connect team can facilitate additional private meetings with specific founders, investors, or industry leaders based on your interests and investment thesis.
MENA Investor Benefits

Strategic Network Expansion
Connect with fellow MENA investors and Silicon Valley veterans
Cross-Regional Opportunities
Discover investment prospects spanning MENA, Europe, and Central Asia
Fresh Market Perspectives
Gain new insights on global trends affecting the MENA investment landscape
Travel Information
Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities and GCC nationals/residents. For those requiring advance arrangements, eVisas can be obtained quickly through https://www.evisa.gov.ge/GeoVisa/
June 20: Investor Luncheon Highlights
20+
Regional Investors
Connect with key investment leaders from across MENA, Europe, and the Caucasus region
Including
Family Offices
Engage with influential family offices exploring tech investment opportunities
Georgian Culinary Experience
Khachapuri
Georgia's iconic cheese-filled bread, varying by region. The Adjarian version features a boat shape with melted cheese and an egg yolk.
Khinkali
Soup dumplings filled with spiced meat, traditionally eaten by hand. A staple at Georgian feasts and social gatherings.
Georgian Wine
The world's oldest winemaking tradition using unique qvevri vessels. Experience distinctive varieties from the birthplace of viticulture.
Event Organizers
Key Contacts
Colin Donohue
Program Director [email protected]
Sameer Sortur
Program Director [email protected]
Startup Connect Investor Conference Team will be available throughout the Investor Onboarding Process to ensure a smooth Investor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the event package?
The package includes 2 nights accommodation in a 4+ star hotel with breakfast, all event passes for June 19-20 activities, VIP networking opportunities, and access to the optional 500 Global Demo Day (upon approval).
Do I need a visa to enter Georgia?
Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities and GCC nationals/residents. Some visitors may require an eVisa, which can be obtained through https://www.evisa.gov.ge/GeoVisa/
What is the investment focus of attending startups?
The event will showcase startups across various sectors including fintech, AI, healthcare tech, enterprise solutions, and regional marketplace innovations, primarily from Georgia and the broader Eurasian region.
Investor Field Trip: Tbilisi, Georgia - Terms & Conditions
A select gathering of General Partners and senior investment professionals exploring opportunities in the vibrant capital of Georgia. By invitation only.
Eligibility & Verification
Who May Attend
This exclusive event is restricted to General Partners (GPs) and senior investment professionals who are actively deploying capital into startups or funds.
Application Process
All applications undergo thorough review by the organizing committee based on investment activity and strategic relevance to the region's ecosystem.
Credential Verification
Participants must submit to verification of their investment role, portfolio activity, and current fund status before final approval is granted.
Participation Guidelines
Non-Transferable Invitation
Invitations cannot be reassigned to colleagues or associates without explicit written authorization from the event organizers.
Professional Conduct
Participants must maintain the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and mutual respect throughout all event activities.
Confidentiality Obligation
All discussions, presentations, and materials shared during the trip are strictly confidential unless specifically authorized for public disclosure.
Financial Considerations
Subsidized Components
Select trip elements including local transportation, group meals, and organized activities may be covered by event sponsors. Full details of subsidized components will be provided upon application approval.
Self-Funded Elements
International flights to and from Tbilisi are generally self-paid by participants unless explicitly stated otherwise in your acceptance documentation.
Accommodation
Partner hotels offer preferential rates for event participants. Some accommodation may be subsidized based on participant status and availability.
Prohibited Activities

Unauthorized Solicitation
No direct fundraising permitted
Unsolicited Pitching
No impromptu presentations
Confidentiality Breaches
No public disclosure of private discussions
The organizing committee maintains a strict policy against unsanctioned promotional activities. All pitches, fundraising efforts, or special presentations must receive prior written approval from event organizers to maintain the collegial, peer-focused nature of the gathering.
Media & Content Usage
Photography Consent
Participation implies consent to appear in group photographs taken during official event activities.
Video Documentation
Select sessions may be recorded for internal documentation or highlight reels with advance notice.
Content Distribution
Event photos and content may be used for non-commercial recap purposes or future event promotion.
Opt-Out Option
Participants may request exclusion from specific promotional materials by notifying organizers in writing.
Organizer Authority
Application Review
Organizers evaluate all applications based on established criteria and may request additional information.
Participation Denial
The committee reserves the right to decline applications that don't meet eligibility requirements or align with event objectives.
Removal Authority
Organizers may revoke participation at any time for code of conduct violations or actions that present reputational risk.
Final Decision-Making
All determinations regarding participation status are final and at the sole discretion of the organizing committee.
Acceptance of Terms
How do I indicate acceptance of these terms?
By submitting your application for the Investor Field Trip, you automatically acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to all terms and conditions outlined in this document.
Can terms be modified after acceptance?
The organizing committee reserves the right to modify these terms with reasonable notice to participants. Continued participation following notification constitutes acceptance of modified terms.
What if I need to request an exception?
Requests for exceptions to any term must be submitted in writing to the organizing committee at least 14 days prior to the event. Exceptions are granted at the sole discretion of the organizers.
What governing law applies to these terms?
These terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Georgia. Any disputes arising shall be resolved through arbitration in Tbilisi.