First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase

An annual celebration of the best early-stage teams commercializing deep tech and life science breakthroughs from the top research institutions in Southern California. 

Get a first look at emerging innovators and breakthroughs

This is the premiere gathering that celebrates research-based spinouts and connects them with top-tier investors and successful serial entrepreneurs with expertise to help them leap from the lab to market. 

First Look SoCal Showcase 2024

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s First Look SoCal the best one yet. We had over 280 attendees, 24 startups from 15 research and academic institutions, and a jury of 30 industry experts to provide feedback and guidance in real time. See you next year!

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Past Events

First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase 2024

May 21, 2024 @ Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles

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First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase 2023

June 14, 2023 @ Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles

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First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase 2022

June 7, 2022 @ Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles

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First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase 2021 [Virtual]

June 16-17, 2021; Virtual due to Covid-19 pandemic

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First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase 2020 [Virtual]

September 15 – 16, 2020: Virtual due to Covid-19 pandemic

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First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase 2019

June 19, 2019 @ Pasadena Conference Center

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First Look SoCal Innovation Showcase 2018

June 20, 2018 @ The Luskin Conference Center at UCLA in Los Angeles

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Participating Academic and Research Institutions

Upcoming events

Check out our events calendar to see upcoming opportunities to connect with the innovation community in Southern California.

Alliance Events

Related Blog Posts

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Courtesy of William White, https://unsplash.com/photos/TZCppMjaOHU

How Universities Support Community: It Depends

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