AI Builders Global Conference 2026 runs online from October 14 to 16, with more than 200 sessions across eight tracks for AI founders, engineers, executives and investors. i2VC is a community partner of the conference.
On Thursday, October 15 at 11:30 AM Eastern, i2VC founder Darshan Honale presents “Beyond the Demo: What Investors Should Actually Diligence in AI Companies in 2026.”
The conference describes the session this way: AI companies can now build impressive products faster than ever, but a strong demo does not necessarily translate into a durable business. The session looks at how investors can evaluate AI startups beyond the initial technology story, covering workflow ownership, customer ROI, defensibility, data advantage, enterprise readiness, go-to-market and capital efficiency. It also looks at how the investment bar for AI companies is evolving as models become more accessible.
Why it matters to i2VC
i2VC is a venture intelligence platform that helps founders and investors navigate private markets with data, from investor mapping to curated events. Understanding how investors judge AI companies is part of that work. Founders can use the session to see what investors weigh beyond the product itself.
Conference details and registration: i2vc.com/aibuildersconf2026. Questions: use the contact form on i2vc.com.