Join Samsung Next and founders of Agapé, Aviron, and Nirmata at TechCrunch Disrupt

Panel conversation on September 22 will delve into what it takes to move from Seed to Series A

David Lee, Head of Samsung Next, will lead a panel discussion on Series A funding during this year’s virtual TechCrunch Disrupt, from Sept. 21 - 23. He will be joined by three founders of companies that are part of Samsung Next’s investment portfolio. The panel, “You’ve Raised Your Seed Round—Preparing for Your Series A,” will be streamed for ticketed attendees on September 22, from 2:25 to 2:45 pm (PDT).

Panel participants will include Kadie Okwudili, CEO and founder of Agapé; Jim Bugwadia, CEO and co-founder of Nirmata; and Andy Hoang, CEO and founder of Aviron.

The session will focus on best practices in using initial funding as a springboard to Series A. Common needs include hiring more talent, refining products and services, demonstrating traction in the marketplace, and supercharging growth. As momentum grows, startup companies invariably need more financing in order to scale. All three of the panelists have experience raising venture capital that is shaped by their unique niches in specific industry sectors.

Agapé is a relationship wellness app for couples. Its goal is to make it easy for people to share and show their love for each other. The healthtech startup is built around the premise that the next wave of mental health will focus on improving interpersonal relationships through education and engagement. The word “agapē” is Greek for “unconditional love.” The company received $1.3 million in seed funding round earlier this year.

Nirmata, which has developed an innovative Kubernetes management platform, is an emerging leader in the infrastructure sector. The company’s Kyverno solution simplifies Kubernetes policy management and enables admins to manage policies and reports as native resources. Nirmata recently raised $3.6 million in a pre-series A funding round. 

Aviron has developed a connected rowing machine for high intensity interval training. In order to provide true high intensity workouts Aviron utilizes magnetic and air resistance that allows users to pull up to 100 pounds with each stroke. The company’s unique gamified content guides users through various exercises. Aviron raised $4.5 million earlier this year in a seed round.

TechCrunch Disrupt focuses on how founders and investors are shaping the future with disruptive technology and ideas. Hundreds of startups across a variety of categories use the event to tell their stories to 10,000-plus influencers from all around the world. It's billed as the ultimate Silicon Valley experience, where investors and entrepreneurs from the startup world gather to ask questions, make connections, and find inspiration.


Emily Koster is Director of Communications at Samsung Next