Founders vs VCs: Agent Wars

​Last year, SVV (Sure Valley Ventures), the specialist AI venture capital firm, backed over 12 new AI companies, delivered two exits, and partnered with leading organisations and universities globally.

So we have set them a challenge. Who can build the best agents in just 2 hours? Founders, or investors?

Join us at Ormeau Labs on the 4th March for a fast, slightly chaotic, and very fun build sprint: Founders vs VCs.

​In this 2-hour sprint, teams of two will go head-to-head with a crew of AI-focused investors to see who can build the best working agent and ship something real—in just 120 minutes. You can join as a team of 2 or just come and be randomly paired up!

​Expect rapid ideation, ruthless prioritisation, and plenty of “wait… that actually works.” After the sprint, our Speed Investment Committee will review the builds, pick a winner, and we’ll roll straight into lunch.

​We’ll then host a fireside AMA over lunch with Ian Browne and DC Cahalane, digging into the real state of AI right now—what’s hype, what’s working, how the venture market is shifting, and what founders should do.

​Date: Wednesday, 4 March

​Venue: Ormeau Labs, Belfast

​Hosted by: Techstars Belfast x Sure Valley Ventures

​Schedule:

• ​11:00 — Arrival + briefing

• ​11:15 – 13:00 — Founders v VCs build sprint

• ​13:00 – 13:30 — IC review + winner announced (during lunch)

• ​13:30–14:30 — Fireside chat: Ian Browne x DC Cahalane

• ​14:30 — Close

​Who it’s for: founders, builders, operators, and anyone curious about building with AI at speed (and seeing VCs try to do the same).

​Format: teams of 2 • limited spots • bring a laptop • bring opinions

​Come to build. Stay to argue about the future of AI (politely).