EPISODE · May 5, 2026 · 41 MIN
From (Series) A+ to Valedictorian: Raising and Scaling in an AI-First Landscape
from ASU+GSV Summit Sessions · host ASU+GSV
Recorded live at the 2026 ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego, this session featured Justin Wenig, Founder & CEO at Starbridge.ai; Diana Heldfond DiGia, CEO and Founder at Parallel Learning; Vinay Bhaskara, Co-founder at CollegeVine; and Erik Edwards, Partner at Cooley LLP.The speakers explored how securing a strong Series A+ round is only the beginning for AI-first EdTech companies, as the real challenge lies in successfully scaling within today’s rapidly evolving market. They discussed what has been resonating most with both customers and investors as category leaders work to solidify their market positions.The session examined how founders are proving unit economics, deepening customer retention, building durable competitive advantages, and staying ahead in an increasingly competitive AI landscape. Through this conversation, the panel unpacked what it takes not only to raise capital, but also to scale effectively and sustainably as AI-first companies navigate their next stage of growth.
What this episode covers
Recorded live at the 2026 ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego, this session featured Justin Wenig, Founder & CEO at Starbridge.ai; Diana Heldfond DiGia, CEO and Founder at Parallel Learning; Vinay Bhaskara, Co-founder at CollegeVine; and Erik Edwards, Partner at Cooley LLP.The speakers explored how securing a strong Series A+ round is only the beginning for AI-first EdTech companies, as the real challenge lies in successfully scaling within today’s rapidly evolving market. They discussed what has been resonating most with both customers and investors as category leaders work to solidify their market positions.The session examined how founders are proving unit economics, deepening customer retention, building durable competitive advantages, and staying ahead in an increasingly competitive AI landscape. Through this conversation, the panel unpacked what it takes not only to raise capital, but also to scale effectively and sustainably as AI-first companies navigate their next stage of growth.
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From (Series) A+ to Valedictorian: Raising and Scaling in an AI-First Landscape
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