Accelerate Your AI Company with Snell & Wilmer’s

Accelerate Your AI Company with Snell & Wilmer’s

AI Leadership Collective in Palo Alto

AI Leadership Collective in Silicon Valley

An exclusive, invite-only forum for 20-30 exceptional Silicon Valley based CEOs of AI-first or AI-driven early-startup to Series B companies, to engage in moderated, high-impact, peer-to-peer facilitated discussions. This private space fosters strategic conversations related to building and scaling AI companies, navigating regulations, securing funding, and leading high-performing teams. Applications are now open – you can apply directly or nominate someone you know who would be a great fit for this opportunity. Participation in this program is offered at no cost to entrepreneurs, underscoring our commitment to supporting the next generation of AI innovators.

Selected Monthly Discussion Topics

Fundraising & Investor Relations

Strategies for securing capital and managing investors.

AI Ethics & Regulations

Navigating evolving legal landscapes.

Talent Acquisition & Retention

Hiring and keeping top AI talent.

Strategic Partnerships & Market Entry

Leveraging key relationships for growth.

Scaling AI Technology

Overcoming infrastructure and operational hurdles.

AI Product-Market Fit & Customer Adoption

Strategies for validating AI solutions in the market.

Monetization & AI Business Models

Subscription vs. usage-based vs. enterprise licensing models.

IP Protection & Licensing

Safeguarding AI innovations.

Data Strategy & Governance

Sourcing high-quality training data while maintaining compliance.

Peer-to-Peer Roundtable Benefits

  • Private Knowledge Exchange – Discuss real-world challenges in a private setting.

  • Expert Moderation – Guided discussions for productive, actionable insights.

  • Diverse Industry Perspectives – Insights from AI leaders across various sectors.

  • Accountability & Support – Structured sessions ensure progress and results.

  • Exclusive Network – Build lasting connections with top AI executives.

  • Relevant Invited Guests – Investors and relevant industry professionals and potential partners are invited to certain meetings.

Program Details

Limited to 20-30 Exceptional AI CEOs
Ensuring high-value discussions.
12-month in-person program in Palo Alto
Consistent engagement for deeper insights, meeting once a month for 4 hours.
For AI-first or AI-driven companies
From early-stage startups to scaling ventures.

Why Join?

1.

Gain unfiltered insights from experienced AI executives.

2.

Develop strategies to tackle your biggest business challenges.

3.

Connect with and build a high-caliber network of AI leaders.

4.

Participate in candid discussions without investor or competitor scrutiny.

5.

Accelerate decision-making and problem-solving.

CEO Candidate Criteria

We seek AI CEOs who demonstrate:

Strong potential for leading and scaling a company.

Ability to listen actively, articulate ideas clearly, and provide thoughtful input.

Capacity to build trust, empathize with peers, and manage relationships effectively.

Dedication to learning, staying ahead of industry trends, and fostering a growth mindset.

Capability to set goals, drive results, and support peers in achieving success.

Commitment to ethical decision-making and resilience in a fast-changing landscape.

AI Leadership Collective Schedule

Wednesdays from 8:30am – 12:30pm (PST)

Wednesdays from
8:30am – 12:30pm (PST)

  • May 7, 2025

  • June 4, 2025

  • July 9, 2025

  • August 6, 2025

  • September 3, 2025

  • October 1, 2025

  • November 5, 2025
  • December 3, 2025

  • January 7, 2026

  • February 4, 2026
  • March 4, 2026
  • April 8, 2026

May 7, 2025

June 4, 2025

July 9, 2025

August 6, 2025

September 3, 2025

October 1, 2025

November 5, 2025

December 3, 2025

January 7, 2026

February 4, 2026

March 4, 2026

April 8, 2026

About the Facilitators

“Peer-to-peer groups are essential for startup success, providing a trusted space for founders to exchange knowledge, tackle challenges, and define and refine best practices for growth and scale. By fostering collaboration, accountability, and mentorship, these communities accelerate decision-making, spark innovation, and empower entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of building and scaling a company with confidence.”

Roger Rappoport - Partner, Snell & Wilmer
Roger Rappoport - Partner, Snell & Wilmer
Roger Rappoport

Partner, Snell & Wilmer

David-Crean-Managing-Partner-Snell-and-Wilmer
David-Crean-Managing-Partner-Snell-and-Wilmer
David Crean

General Partner, 1004 Venture Partners; Managing Partner, Cardiff Advisory

Contact Us for inquiries about Snell & Wilmer or the AI Leadership Collective.

Apply for the AI Leadership Collective

How It Works

  1. Apply or Nominate – Submit an application for yourself or nominate someone you know.
  2. Vetting – Applications are reviewed, and candidates are interviewed.
  3. Acceptance – Approved CEOs join a one-year session of the AI Leadership Collective.

Step 1 of 2

Your Personal Information

Your Name