SoCal Venture Pipeline
Powered by Banc of California
Investor-ready startups raising Seed and Series A funding: get matched with the right venture capital investors.
About the SoCal Venture Pipeline
The SoCal Venture Pipeline (SVP) program helps SoCal-based founders get access to sources of institutional capital for Seed and Series A funding. After a thorough vetting process via two committees of experienced investors, startups accepted into the SVP program receive personal introductions to VCs with a proven track record of funding similar startups or that match their investment thesis. We take no fees or equity from startups or investors — this is a free service funded by sponsors and a federal grant.
How it works
Startups Apply
Complete the online application with detailed non-proprietary information and your investor deck.
Application Review
Your startup is evaluated by two committees to ensure you are ready for investment right now.
Get introduced to VCs
Startups accepted into the program will receive personal introductions to matching investors.
Testimonials
GuyKamgaing
Founder and CEO, StarNews Mobile
“I’ve learned a lot about what investors look for through their events and feedback which helped me refine the way I talk about my startup. Since then, I’ve raised over $4M for my startup.”
JeffDiamond
Investor at Fika Ventures
“If the Alliance offers me a founder introduction I know to take a serious look because they know our fund well. Even if I decide to pass on the introduction, I won’t ignore it”
NiratKeswani
CEO and Founder of Empiric, Inc.
“Being a part of their SoCal Venture Pipeline has led to new investor introductions that I was not connected to before.”
J.C.Ruffalo
Venture Partner at Cove Fund and SVP Evaluation Committee Member
“I love being involved with the SoCal Venture Pipeline. It exposes us to companies that we might not otherwise have a chance to connect with. We are not just looking to invest in companies but also to help expose them to the best resources, expertise, and ultimately capital connections they will need to become successful.”
Investors: Join our relationship network
The Alliance has established a nationwide network of over 200 institutional investors who receive curated personal introductions to high quality startups ready for Seed and Series A funding who match their investment thesis and previous investments. Join our relationship network to get connected to high potential startup founders.
Our Sponsors Make SVP A Free Service
We take no fees, equity or compensation from startups or investors because the program is generously underwritten by Banc of California, as well as Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, KPPB, and HVTC. When you’re fabulously successful, we will brag about you.
Meet the experts
Startups Apply Now
Get matched with the right Seed and Series A investors. These are warm introductions that could change your life.
Program FAQ
What is the SoCal Venture Pipeline?
The SoCal Venture Pipeline is a program developed by The Alliance for SoCal Innovation designed to assist founders in Southern California to access institutional capital. We facilitate strategic introductions to VCs who invest in Seed and Series A rounds.
Who is eligible to apply?
Founders based in Southern California who are preparing to raise their first round of institutional Seed or Series A funding within the next 6 to 12 months are eligible. We cater to various tech industry verticals.
What are the criteria for a startup to be considered ready for Seed or Series A funding?
Key indicators include a minimum raised through angel funding, product market presence, customer traction, a dedicated team, and a scalable business model. Specific requirements vary for Seed and Series A stages. Check out our full FAQ page for more detailed criteria
Is there a cost to apply?
No, there is no cost to apply and we do not take equity in exchange for our services. Our sponsors and a federal grant cover the operational expenses of the program.
How does the selection process work?
Applications are first reviewed by Alliance staff, followed by evaluation and feedback from our Evaluation Committee to narrow down the applicants to the top five. The final decision is made by our Selection Committee, who meet monthly to review the application and a live pitch by the founder with Q&A. meets monthly,
What support can I expect if accepted into the program?
Once accepted, you’ll receive guidance on pitching and presenting your startup, access to our network of resources and mentors and of course (and most importantly) direct personal introductions to qualified, experienced VCs who match your startup.
What happens if my startup is not accepted?
If you are not selected, we provide feedback and referrals to resources to address areas needing improvement. We encourage founders to reapply after further development.
Can I reapply if my startup has evolved since a previous application?
Absolutely! We welcome reapplications from startups that have achieved new milestones or overcome previous challenges.
How are conflicts of interest handled?
We maintain high standards of integrity and transparency. Any potential conflicts of interest with committee members or founders must be disclosed to the Alliance.
How is my application data used and protected?
Your application data is strictly used for evaluation purposes within the SoCal Venture Pipeline program and is not sold or shared externally. We are committed to maintaining confidentiality and data security.
Upcoming events
Connect with the SoCal innovation community through highly curated leadership workshops and focused events that drive high quality relationships.
