Blackstone's AI Expert Reveals How Next-Gen AI Giants Are Built at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

Blackstone's AI Expert Shares Playbook for Building Next-Generation AI Companies at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

Jas Khaira, a leader at investment giant Blackstone, will speak at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 about what it takes to build the next wave of AI powerhouses. His talk on the Builders Stage will focus on the strategies and insights shaping the future of artificial intelligence companies. If you want to attend, TechCrunch is offering 50% off a second pass, making it easier to bring a team member along.

For small business owners, this is worth paying attention to. Understanding how major investors view AI development can help you make smarter decisions about which AI tools to adopt and where the technology is actually heading. Rather than chasing every new AI trend, you'll get a clearer picture of which capabilities and companies are built to last. Plus, hearing from someone at Blackstone's level gives you insight into where serious money is flowing in the AI space—a reliable signal of what's actually valuable.

Small business owners are already experimenting with AI in various ways, from analyzing sales data to automating invoicing and billing. Khaira's talk could help you think bigger about AI's potential in your own operation and understand why certain AI platforms are winning investment while others fade.

What to watch: Pay attention to which AI capabilities Khaira highlights as essential for the next generation of companies. Whether he emphasizes speed, customization, affordability, or security could shift how you evaluate AI tools for your business. Keep an eye on announcements from Disrupt 2026—major investor takeaways often filter down quickly to the tools and platforms small businesses actually use.