Salesforce’s AI Pitchfield aims to accelerate AI innovation in startups

Salesforce has launched the first edition of AI Pitchfield, a new startup pitch competition organized by the Salesforce Startup Community in partnership with Salesforce Ventures, Lightspeed India, and Khaitan & Co. The competition aims to bring together innovative B2B SaaS, AI-first, and AI-driven startups from India and Southeast Asia. Participants will have the opportunity to present their best pitches for a chance to secure a $100K investment from Salesforce Ventures.

Recognizing the transformative power of AI in shaping the future of business, AI Pitchfield offers growing and established startups the opportunity to pitch their unique business ideas. Shortlisted startups get to pitch in front of our esteemed jury consisting of Arundhathi Bhattacharya, CEO & Chairperson, Salesforce India; investors from Salesforce Ventures and leading executives and personalities from the Indian tech ecosystem.

Startups eligible for AI Pitchfield can apply by submitting the necessary details and resources via the competition website's application form, from October 21, 2024, to November 30, 2024. Salesforce Ventures, along with the Salesforce Startup Community, will review submitted applications to shortlist the top five finalists who will pitch live in the grand finale on January 9, 2025. The AI Pitchfield competition is subject in all respects to the competition terms and conditions provided on the AI Pitchfield website.

John Somorjai, President, Salesforce Ventures, said, “With the agent-fuelled AI revolution charging ahead, there is an endless runway for innovation. In fact, the pace of transformation is faster than ever. By providing startups with the resources, exposure, and support they need to succeed, AI Pitchfield is empowering the next generation of AI leaders to shape a brighter future for all. AI Pitchfield is more than just a competition; it is a catalyst for innovation and a driving force behind the growth of the AI ecosystem in India and Singapore.”

Sanket Atal, SVP and Managing Director - Operations & Technology, Salesforce India, said, "In today's world, AI is a key driver of innovation, offering startups immense potential to overcome challenges and achieve success. AI Pitchfield serves as a dynamic platform that brings together like-minded entrepreneurs, enabling them to network, collaborate, and share ideas. By fostering connections, facilitating engagement with ecosystem partners, and providing investment opportunities, we are dedicated to empowering startups to harness the power of AI, bring their ideas to life, and shape the future of technology."

Hemant Mohapatra, Partner at Lightspeed, said, "We are delighted to be a part of AI Pitchfield as we have a deep conviction in the power of these new-age startups to transform industries and shape the future of AI. We are excited to see how these visionary founders will drive the next wave of AI advancements."