San Diego Startup Ecosystem Overview
Market Strengths
Life Sciences Hub
Home to 1,400+ life sciences companies including major biotech successes like Illumina, Biogen, and Neurocrine.
Growing Investment Activity
$2.1B invested in San Diego startups in 2024, with strong focus on life sciences and deeptech.
Research Excellence
Proximity to UCSD, Scripps, Salk Institute creates strong pipeline of innovative technologies and talent.
Top Investment Sectors
Key Statistics
Top Angel Groups in San Diego
San Diego Angel Conference
Premier angel conference connecting investors with high-growth companies in biotech and tech.
Tech Coast Angels San Diego
San Diego chapter of the largest angel organization on the West Coast.
San Diego Angels
Active angel group supporting early-stage companies across multiple sectors.
Biocom Angels
Specialized angel network focusing on life sciences and biotech innovations.
San Diego Venture Group Angels
Established angel network with focus on scalable technology companies.
How to Connect with San Diego Angel Investors
1Leverage Research Networks
Tap into San Diego's extensive research and academic networks.
- • UCSD Rady School connections
- • Scripps Research alumni
- • Biocom member networks
- • CONNECT program participants
2Attend Industry Events
San Diego has active biotech and tech investor events throughout the year.
- • San Diego Angel Conference
- • Biocom Investor Days
- • SDVG monthly meetings
- • CONNECT entrepreneur events
3Focus on Life Sciences
Many San Diego angels have deep biotech and life sciences experience.
- • Highlight IP and regulatory strategy
- • Show clinical development plan
- • Demonstrate market potential
- • Include scientific advisory board
San Diego Angel Investor Events
San Diego Angel Conference
Major annual event connecting angels with startups
SDVG Angel Investor Meetup
Regular networking for angel investors and entrepreneurs
Biocom Life Science Investor Day
Specialized event for life sciences investors
💡 Pro Tip for San Diego
San Diego angels often have scientific backgrounds. Be prepared to discuss technical details and regulatory pathways, especially for life sciences companies.
Related Resources
Other California Markets
SD Startup Ecosystem
Last updated: 8/18/2025 | Data sources: Biocom, San Diego Venture Group |About our data