Startups Reveal the Brutal Truth: What It Really Takes to Find Product-Market Fit at Disrupt 2025

The Quest for Product-Market Fit: Insights from the Frontlines of Innovation In the high-stakes world of startups, finding product-market fit is often touted as a milestone to be celebrated. But the reality is far more nuanced. It's a messy, make-or-break journey that requires founders to navigate uncharted territory with precision and courage. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, three seasoned experts will share their hard-won insights on how to succeed in this critical phase. Rajat Bhageria, founder and CEO of Chef Robotics, has spent years scaling AI-powered automation that's transforming food production. Ann Bordetsky, a partner at NEA, has witnessed firsthand the scrappy ingenuity that drives breakout success – from her stints at Uber and Twitter. And Murali Joshi, a Forbes Midas Brink List honoree with over $2.5 billion invested in companies like Drata, 1Password, and Fivetran, knows what it takes to build something customers can't live without. These three visionaries will take the stage at Moscone West in San Francisco on October 27-29 to offer a rare inside look at what product-market fit really looks like. They'll share smart testing strategies, real-time iteration techniques, and the art of listening to users without getting lost in the noise. Whether you're in prototype mode or scaling a growing product, this session promises actionable insights that will cut through the guesswork and focus on what actually moves the needle. A Journey of Trial and Error Rajat Bhageria's journey with Chef Robotics is a testament to the unpredictable nature of innovation. "We've had our fair share of setbacks," he admits. "But we've also learned that product-market fit isn't just about finding the right solution – it's about being willing to pivot when things don't work out." With AI-powered automation, Chef Robotics has disrupted traditional food production methods, but Bhageria knows that this wasn't a linear process. "We experimented with various approaches before landing on our current model," he explains. "It was a messy journey, but one that ultimately led us to where we are today." The Art of Listening Ann Bordetsky's experience at Uber and Twitter has given her a unique perspective on what drives breakout success. "When I look back at my time at these companies, I realize that it wasn't just about the product – it was about understanding our users' needs and pain points," she says. Bordetsky emphasizes the importance of listening to customers without getting lost in the noise. "It's easy to get caught up in your own vision, but ultimately, it's the user who dictates what works and what doesn't." The Investment Expert Murali Joshi has spent years investing in companies that have disrupted their respective industries. His track record speaks for itself – Drata, 1Password, and Fivetran are just a few of the success stories under his belt. For Joshi, product-market fit is about more than just finding the right solution; it's about building something that resonates with customers on a deeper level. "When I invest in a company, I'm looking for that spark – that moment when everything comes together and you know you're onto something special," he says. A Rare Inside Look At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, Bhageria, Bordetsky, and Joshi will share their insights on how to navigate the critical phase of product-market fit. Whether you're a seasoned founder or just starting out, this session promises actionable advice that will help you cut through the guesswork and focus on what actually moves the needle. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the experts who have been there, done that. Register now for TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 and join the conversation on October 27-29 at Moscone West in San Francisco. Get Ready to Build Something Customers Can't Live Without In a world where innovation is the only constant, finding product-market fit is no longer just about checking off a milestone – it's about building something that truly resonates with customers. Join Rajat Bhageria, Ann Bordetsky, and Murali Joshi at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 to learn how to succeed in this critical phase. Register Now Don't wait until tomorrow ends! Grab your pass now and save up to $668. Be a part of the conversation that will shape the future of innovation. Register for TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 today and get ready to build something customers can't live without. *Based on reporting by Techcrunch.*