As growth tech companies continue to navigate these dynamic and competitive business environments, three strategic priorities have emerged as critical for CEOs in 2025.

First, harnessing the power of AI remains at the forefront (no surprise). With AI capturing roughly 45% of all venture capital investment last year, staying competitive means embedding AI across the right products, operations, and customer experiences. I shared my perspective with a few, and I’ve recently heard a few respected colleagues say similarly, leaders want generative and agentic AI deployed meaningfully, intelligently, and in a cost-effective manner to maximize return on investment. The focus shift demand, from hype to impact, and from experimentation to execution, where AI consistently delivers measurable business value.

Second, bridging the innovation-adoption gap is key. While technology and service providers are innovating rapidly, particularly with generative AI, many user organizations are struggling to keep pace. CEOs need leaders who lead. Those who understand the imperative to prioritize customer enablement, investing in education, support, and integration tools to drive adoption. Without this, innovation risks becoming shelfware — a contributing factor to the projected failure of nearly 50% of enterprise GenAI projects by 2026.

Third, aligning investments with measurable outcomes is essential. As tech budgets tighten and scrutiny increases, growth tech CEOs want to ensure that every dollar spent contributes to customer success, operational efficiency, and revenue generation. Strategic clarity, disciplined execution, and a customer-first mindset will separate the companies that scale sustainably from those that stagnate.

What leadership questions are you asking yourself every day, and how are you actively stepping up to exceed the expectations of those you serve?

1. How will I help my organization grow and reach its goals (highest potential)? By leading with clarity, conviction, and purpose.
2. How will I build strong, resilient teams? By investing in real relationships — rooted in trust, respect, and shared ambition.
3. Am I creating an environment where people can thrive? I must. That means communicating with intention, leading with empathy, and showing up with positivity every day.
4. What kind of culture am I shaping? One where excellence is expected, collaboration is celebrated, and every voice matters.

To lead is to inspire, to listen, to act — and to never stop pushing toward what’s possible.

Be well.