Strategic AI Insights: Key Takeaways from DENT:AI San Diego 2025
The DENT:AI San Diego 2025 startup showcase reception brought together over 200 founders, investors, and tech professionals to explore practical approaches to AI innovation. Even if you couldn’t make it to San Diego, here we’re sharing some actionable insights for organizations navigating the AI landscape from our expert speakers.
Rethink AI Adoption and Investment Strategies
Curt Jacobsen (McKinsey and Company) led a discussion with Mel Lim (Chateauz) and Manish Sirdeshmukh (Qualcomm) that highlighted key implementation approaches:
Assess whether your organization is built for 2x or 10x growth — this determines risk tolerance and AI adoption strategy
Focus on developing both technical AI skills and human capabilities
Start AI training now — teams with AI knowledge will replace those without
Use AI to eliminate routine tasks, freeing time for higher-value work
Adapt to the New AI Startup Landscape
Andy White revealed how the AI startup ecosystem has evolved:
Move beyond simple API wrapping - focus on novel applications that solve specific problems
Consider alternative funding approaches as traditional 10-13 year VC timelines shift
Look for opportunities in highly sensitive enterprise data rather than public datasets
Target smaller, focused deals that can generate meaningful returns without requiring traditional exits
Build Innovation-Ready Culture
Charlene Li provided a framework for fostering AI innovation:
Replace “empowerment” with “agency” — encourage action without permission
Implement the SBI (Situation, Behavior, Impact) feedback model (more info here)
Create processes for productive disagreement
Ensure teams understand:
Future customer vision
Strategy to achieve it
Their role in execution
Choose Your Ecosystem Carefully
Aaron Fulkerson (Opaque Systems) and Cheryl K. Goodman (FindGood.tech, AskTuring.ai) discussed San Diego's distinct advantages:
Access to senior talent seeking alternatives to Silicon Valley’s always-on culture
Opportunities for meaningful collaboration without constant pitch pressure
Growing community of AI-focused events and connections
Strong technical foundation from established companies like Qualcomm
Next Steps: Join Us at Dent 2025
For over a decade, Dent the Future has brought together curious, adventurous professionals to explore new approaches to thinking and breakthrough ideas. Continue these conversations at our annual conference in Santa Fe this September, where thought leaders and innovators gather to "dent the future."
Beyond AI, you'll engage with diverse perspectives on technology, innovation, and leadership while building meaningful connections in an intimate setting. Past Dent conferences have catalyzed new ventures, partnerships, and ways of thinking — all that have truly made a dent in the universe.
Join us at Dent 2025 in Santa Fe this September. Space is limited to ensure meaningful interactions.
Learn more and get your invitation at dentthefuture.com/conference