The 2025 Technology Finance Symposium - West, took place on April 23 at the Historic Klamath in San Francisco, bringing together CFOs, finance leaders, and tech investors for an extraordinary event. With iconic views and valuable insights, the day was truly special. The unmatched networking opportunities helped attendees prepare for success in today's rapidly evolving landscape.
Highlights from the Symposium in San Francisco!
Session recordings
Finance Reimagined: How CFOs Are Leading the Charge in AI, Strategy, and Growth
At a time when the finance function is undergoing a seismic shift, our Technology Finance Symposium in San Francisco brought together technology thought leaders, innovators, and seasoned executives to explore the evolving role of CFOs and the technologies reshaping the financial landscape. The event served as a powerful lens into the future of finance, where strategic leadership, AI-driven transformation, and cross-functional alignment are no longer optional but essential for technology companies.
One of the most resonant themes was the transformation of the CFO role. Once seen as the steward of financial reporting and compliance, today’s CFO is a strategic architect, deeply embedded in corporate strategy, M&A, ESG initiatives, and digital innovation. This evolution is not just a shift in responsibilities—it’s a redefinition of leadership. CFOs are now expected to navigate complex regulatory environments, manage cybersecurity risks, and lead digital transformation efforts, all while maintaining financial discipline and operational efficiency.
Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a central force in this transformation. Across multiple sessions, speakers highlighted how AI is automating routine tasks, enhancing audit accuracy, and enabling predictive forecasting. But the conversation didn’t stop at automation. The real opportunity lies in AI’s ability to elevate the finance function—freeing teams from transactional work and empowering them to focus on strategic insights and decision-making. Success stories from B2B firms illustrated how rethinking workflows with AI can accelerate financial close and improve operational agility.
However, the path to AI adoption is not without its challenges. Several speakers emphasized the importance of leadership commitment, data readiness, and organizational change management. One cautionary tale highlighted a well-funded financial services firm that built sophisticated AI models—only to see them underutilized due to poor alignment with business needs. The takeaway was clear: AI must be built with the end user in mind, and trust in the technology is paramount. That trust is earned through transparency, ethical governance, and continuous model training to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Metrics and measurement were another focal point, particularly in the context of SaaS businesses. The sessions underscored the importance of aligning finance and go-to-market strategies through shared metrics like net new ARR, CAC ratio, and net revenue retention. These KPIs must cascade across departments to drive accountability and performance. Standardized definitions of non-GAAP metrics and a strong data culture were cited as critical enablers of this alignment. As one speaker put it, “You can’t manage what you don’t measure—and you can’t scale what you don’t understand.”
Accounts receivable, often overlooked in strategic discussions, took center stage in a session that reimagined AR as a growth engine. AR is evolving from a back-office function to a customer-centric, revenue-enabling powerhouse. AI and automation are streamlining billing, collections, and dispute resolution, while fintech innovations like embedded finance and real-time credit scoring are enhancing customer experience and loyalty. The point came across unmistakably: AR is no longer just about getting paid—it’s about building relationships and driving repeat business.
Fundraising, always a hot topic, was addressed with a candid look at the current environment. With increased competition and shifting investor expectations, startups are under pressure to demonstrate both growth and efficiency. Panelists advised founders to start investor conversations early, maintain clear and consistent metrics, and craft compelling narratives that highlight innovation and market potential. Common pitfalls—like unclear revenue definitions and delayed cap table management—were flagged as avoidable mistakes that can derail funding efforts.
The event also provided a deep dive into the M&A landscape, revealing a rebound in deal activity, particularly in the software and SaaS sectors. With buyers paying premiums for top-tier assets and private equity firms holding substantial capital reserves, the environment is ripe for strategic acquisitions. Speakers highlighted the importance of understanding valuation dynamics and aligning M&A strategy with long-term business goals. The rise in VC-backed company exits and the growing role of private equity in the exit environment were also noted as key trends shaping the market.
Strategic decision-making and financial reporting were explored through the lens of high-growth companies. Panelists emphasized the need for robust financial infrastructure, including audited financials, clear KPIs, and experienced finance teams. Tools like pre-mortem analysis and scenario planning were recommended to anticipate risks and guide high-stakes decisions. AI’s role in budgeting and forecasting was also discussed, with panelists noting its potential to enhance accuracy and agility in planning processes.
Throughout the event, one message rang loud and clear: finance is no longer just about managing numbers. It’s about leading innovation, enabling strategy, and shaping the future of business. Whether through AI adoption, metric-driven alignment, or strategic capital deployment, today’s finance leaders are redefining what it means to drive value.
As the sessions concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose—and a clear roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern finance. The future belongs to those who embrace change, champion innovation, and lead with clarity and conviction. And if this event was any indication, that future is already taking shape.
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