Urban Insights: How Startups Get Smart on Policy

Many of today’s biggest innovators – from Airbnb to Uber to DoorDash – face massive regulatory pushback. While late stage companies can afford to hire powerful lobbyists, what are the options for early stage startups? With so many startups tackling regulated industries (transportation, proptech, energy, fintech, etc), it’s important to be equipped from the early days. Come hear from the experts that help startups get smart on policy & regulation.

Meet the panelists:

MOLLY TURNER / UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, startup advisor, & formerly Airbnb: Molly teaches the popular Haas class “Tech and the City: How to Get Urban Innovation Right.” She is also the co-host and co-producer of the podcast Technopolis. She advises startups on tech policy issues and serves on the board of urban policy think tank SPUR. Previously, Molly established Airbnb’s public policy team.

SAMANTHA ROXAS / Roxas Public Affairs, startup advisor, & formerly WeWork: Samantha advises innovative organizations, companies, and startups on public policy, external affairs, community development, and communications. Previously, she worked as a Senior Manager of Public Affairs at WeWork and Director of Policy and Communications for San Francisco Mayor London Breed.

CLARA BRENNER / Urban Innovation Fund: Clara is co-founder of the Urban Innovation Fund, a venture capital firm investing in the future of cities. The fund provides seed capital and regulatory support to startups tackling our toughest urban problems – helping them grow into tomorrow’s most valued companies.