Kleiner Perkins’ Mike Abbott and Google X’s Dave Vos join more than two dozen investors looking to tap into growing unmanned systems and robotics market

ARLINGTON, Va. — Executives from venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers and Google X’s Project Wing will speak at the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International’s Startup Connection on Monday, July 18 at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square Hotel.

Mike Abbott, general partner at KPCB, will lead a “Keynote Fireside Chat” to start the conference. In his role at the firm, Abbott focuses on investments in the firm’s digital practice and works to help entrepreneurs win the race for talent in a hyper-competitive recruitment environment. He has also led the building of innovative, high-performance applications and services at Twitter, Palm, and Microsoft.

Dave Vos, the head of Project Wing at Google X, will discuss “Navigating the Startup Landscape.” His presentation will help guide startups that are considering, or in the process of navigating, the funding cycle. Vos also will provide important insights on market opportunities, challenges and considerations to help them stand out in an increasingly competitive field.

AUVSI’s Startup Connection will also include an “Investor Insights Panel” moderated by Derek Kerton, founder and principal analyst at the Kerton Group. The firm is recognized as an industry expert in wireless technology, content and applications. It has over 15 years of experience working with leading international clients, including Sony, BT, eBay, and Disney Internet Group. Participating panelists include Gareth Keane, Qualcomm Ventures; David Austin, PCH; and Kate McAndrew, Bolt SF.

In addition, AUVSI’s Startup Connection will feature “Matchmaker Speed Networking,” which will provide valuable pre-arranged 10-minute meetings between entrepreneurs and those seeking new partnerships. Over two dozen Silicon Valley venture capitalists focused on the unmanned systems and robotics industry will take part in the session.

For more information about AUVSI’s Startup Connection, and to register to participate in the event, visit startup.auvsi.org. Complimentary registration is provided to media to cover the Startup Connection. To register, contact Tom McMahon at tmcmahon@auvsi.org or (571) 255-7786.

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About AUVSI

The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) — the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of unmanned systems and robotics — represents more than 7,500 members from more than 60 countries involved in the fields of government, industry and academia. AUVSI members work in the defense, civil and commercial markets.