PitchBook: California-based startups have raised ~$366B in 2026 so far across 4,000+ companies, more than triple the total of all other 49 states combined (Paul Kiernan/Wall Street Journal)
California’s startup funding lead is being driven by a record in-state haul, not a close race with other hubs.
PitchBook says more than 4,000 California-based startups have raised about $366 billion in venture capital so far in 2026. That is more than three times the combined total for companies in the other 49 states. The Wall Street Journal frames the surge as coming despite fears over billionaire-tax proposals. Techmeme's note
PitchBook says more than 4,000 California-based startups have raised about $366 billion in venture capital so far in 2026. That is more than three times the combined total for companies in the other 49 states. The Wall Street Journal frames the surge as coming despite fears over billionaire-tax proposals. Techmeme's note
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