Meet this year’s fastest growing, most exciting tech and life sciences startups in Southern California. After a rigorous selection process, our esteemed judges have identified 30 standout companies—11 in life sciences, 17 in tech, and 2 in consumer markets—ready to make waves and raise their first rounds of institutional funding.

Cool Companies is Connect’s premier capital program, matching top-performing startups with leading venture capital firms. Since 2015, Cool Companies have raised over $900M in Series A funding, solidifying San Diego’s reputation as a thriving innovation hub.

Explore this year’s class and see who’s shaping the future.