TechCrunch to host StrictlyVC Los Angeles event on June 18

In short: TechCrunch is bringing its StrictlyVC event to the Los Angeles area on June 18, with on-stage conversations between investors and startup founders.

What happened

TechCrunch announced StrictlyVC Los Angeles 2026, an in-person evening event focused on conversations with investors and entrepreneurs. It will take place on Thursday, June 18, at The Aerospace Corporation Campus in El Segundo.

TechCrunch says the event is designed to be smaller and more discussion-focused than a big conference. The schedule includes “fireside chats,” which are informal interviews on stage (think of a live podcast interview, with the guest telling stories and answering questions).

One featured speaker is Ethan Thornton, the founder of Mach Industries. TechCrunch says he will talk about building defense-related technology companies and why this area is changing as software and automated machines become more connected to manufacturing and national security.

Another session will include Delian Asparouhov of Founders Fund and Saif Khawaja of Shinkei Systems. They plan to discuss “physical AI,” which is AI used in machines in the real world, like robots and automated equipment (AI that can move things, not just write text).

TechCrunch said more speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.

Why it matters

Even if you are not in tech, events like this often influence what gets funded next, which can shape the products and services people eventually see. When investors and founders compare notes in person, it can speed up deals and partnerships, especially in fast-moving areas like AI and robotics.

Source: TechCrunch AI