Artificial intelligence is reshaping how startups build products, reach customers, operate more efficiently, and compete at scale. At the same time, investors are raising the bar—looking beyond AI adoption itself to evaluate whether founders are using it strategically to create defensible advantages, accelerate growth, and build enduring companies. For high-growth founders seeking capital, demonstrating AI readiness is becoming an increasingly important part of the investment conversation.

The Nasdaq Center is excited to be joined by Erica Rooney— Founder, Strategic Advisor, Leadership Expert, and AI Educator— for a strategic session designed to help founders understand how artificial intelligence is changing investor expectations and what it takes to build a venture that stands out. Participants will explore how to thoughtfully integrate AI into their business strategy, strengthen their competitive positioning, and communicate a compelling vision that resonates with today's investors.

Whether you're preparing for your next fundraising round or building toward long-term growth, this session will provide practical insights into using AI not simply as a technology, but as a strategic advantage that enhances execution, scalability, and enterprise value.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how investors evaluate AI-enabled companies and what signals demonstrate long-term potential beyond the latest technology trends.
• Discover how to integrate AI in ways that strengthen your business model, improve execution, and create sustainable competitive advantage.
• Gain practical guidance for articulating how AI supports your growth strategy, market opportunity, and investment thesis.
• Walk away with a framework for building an AI-enabled business that is scalable, capital-ready, and positioned for long-term success.