California houses a vibrant biotechnology sector dedicated to developing innovative solutions in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Companies span from established giants like Kite Pharma to nimble startups focused on areas such as genetic research, drug discovery, and immunotherapy. Going forward, the industry is increasingly embracing cutting-edge technologies like AI and CRISPR to tackle global health challenges and improve therapeutic effectiveness. With growing investment and research, California’s biotech firms are well-poised to make significant breakthroughs that enhance human health and address urgent medical needs, reinforcing the state’s position as a global innovation hub.

The companies highlighted here range in size from small startups to larger firms, with most locally headquartered in key biotech hubs like San Diego and South San Francisco. Founded between the 1980s and 2020s, these firms specialize in offerings such as antibody development, cell therapies, and molecular biology tools. Many have attracted substantial funding, illustrating a strong interest in advancing medical innovations that address critical health challenges. This combination of experience and innovation positions California’s biotechnology sector for ongoing growth and impactful discoveries.

Continue reading to learn about California's top biotechnology companies.

Top 20 Biotechnology Companies in California

1. BioLegend

• Website: biolegend.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Taiwan 3%, Other 5%
• Latest funding: $5.2B, July 2021
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: biolegend

BioLegend, founded in 2002 and based in San Diego, California, is a biotechnology company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of antibodies and reagents tailored for biomedical research. The company serves a wide array of researchers in academia and industry, providing essential tools for applications across several critical fields, including neuroscience, immunology, oncology, and proteogenomics. BioLegend is dedicated to delivering high-quality products and custom solutions, which are vital for advancing scientific research. The company operates globally, with a significant portion of its workforce based in the United States. In July 2021, BioLegend secured substantial funding, amounting to $5.25 billion, which underscores its growth potential and commitment to innovation in the biotechnology sector. Their product offerings include a range of antibodies, proteins, and custom services, making them a valuable partner for researchers aiming to push the boundaries of scientific discovery.

2. HemaCare Corporation, a Charles River Company

• Website: hemacare.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $380.0M, December 2019
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: hemacare-corporation

HemaCare Corporation, a Charles River Company, is a biotechnology firm based in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1978, the company specializes in providing a comprehensive range of services that support drug discovery and development. HemaCare focuses on cell sourcing, offering a variety of human immune and stem cell products that are crucial for research and therapeutic applications. Their portfolio includes whole blood products, leukopaks, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). HemaCare's commitment to quality is evident in their adherence to regulatory standards, ensuring that their products meet the necessary compliance for research and clinical use. As part of Charles River Laboratories, HemaCare enhances the capabilities of pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms by streamlining the drug development process and providing essential resources for advancing medical research.

3. Calico Life Sciences

• Website: calicolabs.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: Seed, January 2021
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: calico-life-sciences-llc

Calico Life Sciences LLC, based in South San Francisco, California, is a biotechnology company founded in 2013 with a clear focus on research and development in the field of aging and age-related diseases. The company aims to harness advanced technologies to deepen the understanding of the biology of aging and to create novel therapies that can improve healthspan. Calico's research efforts are characterized by a commitment to high-quality publications and a growing pipeline of compounds targeting diseases associated with aging, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Their clinical trials, such as those for Vanishing White Matter Disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, reflect their dedication to translating research into practical treatments. Calico collaborates with various academic and biopharmaceutical partners, leveraging their expertise and resources to enhance their drug discovery and development processes. The company operates with a culture that encourages scientific inquiry and innovation, positioning itself as a significant player in the biotechnology sector.

4. Takara Bio USA, Inc.

• Website: takarabio.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Jose, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $35.9M, March 2017
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: takarabiousa

Takara Bio USA, Inc. is a biotechnology firm based in San Jose, California, established in 1984. The company focuses on providing a wide array of products and services, including kits, reagents, and instruments tailored for molecular biology research. Their offerings are primarily aimed at researchers in academic and clinical environments, facilitating critical work in gene discovery, regulation, and function. Takara Bio USA is part of the Takara Bio Group, which holds a significant position in the global biotechnology market. The company emphasizes its mission to enhance human health through innovative biotechnology solutions, showcasing a commitment to quality and customer support. Their product range includes advanced tools for next-generation sequencing, real-time PCR, and stem cell research, among others, reflecting their active involvement in key areas of biotechnology.

5. Versant Ventures

• Website: versantventures.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 64%, Canada 19%, Switzerland 16%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: versant-ventures

Versant Ventures, founded in 1999 and based in San Francisco, California, is a private venture capital firm that specializes in biotechnology. With a robust portfolio and $4.2 billion in assets under management, the firm partners with academic institutions to create and fund innovative biotechnology companies. Versant Ventures operates through its unique Discovery Engines, which consist of in-house teams of multi-disciplinary scientists working in state-of-the-art laboratories. This approach allows them to translate scientific discoveries into viable business ventures, primarily targeting the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. Their portfolio includes notable companies such as Black Diamond Therapeutics and Chinook Therapeutics, showcasing their active role in nurturing and advancing biotech innovations.

6. Eikon Therapeutics

• Website: eikontx.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Hayward, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series D, $350.7M, February 2025
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: eikon-therapeutics-inc

Eikon Therapeutics, founded in 2019 and based in Hayward, California, is a biotechnology company dedicated to advancing innovative therapeutics through the integration of engineering and science. The company specializes in drug discovery and development, focusing on areas such as oncology, immunology, and neuroscience. Eikon's proprietary technologies, particularly their Single Molecule Tracking (SMT) platform, enable researchers to visualize and analyze protein dynamics in living cells with remarkable precision. This capability is essential for identifying new therapeutic targets and developing novel treatments for serious diseases. Eikon has a robust pipeline of clinical and preclinical programs, demonstrating their commitment to addressing significant medical needs. The company has attracted substantial investment, securing $350 million in a Series D funding round in February 2025, which underscores their potential and relevance in the biotechnology sector.

7. Hexagon Bio

• Website: hexagonbio.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $77.3M, October 2022
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hexagon-bio

Hexagon Bio, founded in 2016 and based in Menlo Park, California, is a biotechnology company dedicated to drug discovery and development, with a strong emphasis on cancer therapies. The company utilizes advanced techniques in genomics and synthetic biology to mine microbial genomes for novel medicines, particularly focusing on antibody drug conjugates. Their innovative platform combines computational biology and experimental methods to identify new therapeutic compounds that target cancer-related proteins. Hexagon Bio has attracted significant investment, raising $77.3 million in a Series B funding round in October 2022, which underscores their potential in the biotechnology field. Their work aims to unlock the therapeutic potential of natural products, addressing critical gaps in cancer treatment options and contributing to the broader fight against cancer.

8. ProMab Biotechnologies, Inc.

• Website: promab.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Richmond, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2018
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: promab-biotechnologies-inc.

ProMab Biotechnologies, Inc., founded in 2001 and based in Richmond, California, is a biotechnology company that specializes in custom antibody production, CAR-T cell development, and mRNA-LNP services. The company serves pharmaceutical and research organizations, providing critical tools and technologies that support drug development and therapeutic applications. ProMab has generated over 5,000 monoclonal antibodies and completed more than 500 CAR-T projects, showcasing their active involvement in the biotechnology industry. They also have a portfolio of over 50 filed patents, reflecting their innovative approach. ProMab's services include custom CAR-T cell development, mRNA-LNP gene delivery, and various protein expression services, which are essential for advancing research and clinical trials. Their focus on CAR-T and mRNA technologies aligns with current trends in biotechnology, making them a relevant player in the industry.

9. Hinge Bio

• Website: hingebio.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Burlingame, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, $30.0M, January 2025
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hinge-bio-inc

Hinge Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology firm based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2015. The company specializes in the development of innovative therapeutics using its proprietary GEM-DIMER™ platform. This platform is designed to enhance the effectiveness of treatments for diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders by enabling cooperative binding to disease targets. Hinge Bio collaborates with healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies to improve therapeutic outcomes. The company has recently raised $30 million in Series A funding, which reflects strong investor interest and supports its mission to advance drug development. Hinge Bio's team comprises experienced professionals with a track record in biotechnology, further positioning the company for success in the industry.

10. Mammoth Biosciences

• Website: mammoth.bio
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Brisbane, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series D, $150.0M, September 2021
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mammothbio

Mammoth Biosciences is a biotechnology company based in Brisbane, California, specializing in CRISPR-based therapeutics and diagnostics. Founded in 2017, the company aims to transform patient care through innovative gene editing solutions. Their focus includes developing in vivo gene editing therapeutics and a CRISPR-based detection platform, which has the potential to address critical medical needs. With a team that includes co-founder and CRISPR pioneer Jennifer Doudna, Mammoth is dedicated to advancing the science of genetic medicine. The company has attracted significant investment, raising $150 million in its Series D funding round in September 2021. This financial backing supports their ambitious pipeline of CRISPR technologies and partnerships with major pharmaceutical firms, enhancing their capacity to deliver impactful solutions in the biotechnology sector.

11. NantKwest

• Website: nantkwest.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2020
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nantkwest

NantKwest, operating under the name ImmunityBio, is a biotechnology firm based in Culver City, California. Founded in 2002, the company is dedicated to developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at treating cancer and infectious diseases. Their flagship product, ANKTIVA®, has received FDA approval and is part of a broader strategy to enhance the immune system's ability to combat diseases. ImmunityBio is currently involved in numerous clinical trials, with a focus on conditions such as bladder cancer, glioblastoma, and HIV. The company collaborates with various research institutions, including the National Cancer Institute, to advance its clinical studies and improve treatment options for patients. With a team of experienced professionals and a commitment to patient-centered care, ImmunityBio is positioned to make significant contributions to the field of biotechnology.

12. Mapp Biopharmaceutical Inc

• Website: mappbio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $16.5M, June 2019
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mapp-biopharmaceutical-inc

Mapp Biopharmaceutical Inc, founded in 2003 by Drs. Kevin Whaley and Larry Zeitlin, is a biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. The company specializes in developing novel therapeutics aimed at preventing and treating infectious diseases, with a particular focus on unmet needs in global health and biodefense. Mapp collaborates with various government agencies and healthcare organizations to tackle significant health challenges. Their product offerings include monoclonal antibody therapies designed to combat serious viral threats. Notably, Mapp has been involved in the development of treatments for viruses such as Nipah and Marburg, and has received funding through grants, including a notable $16.5 million grant in 2019. The company continues to advance its research and development efforts, as evidenced by recent announcements regarding human trials and collaborations with BARDA to enhance national preparedness against viral outbreaks.

13. BigHat Biosciences

• Website: bighatbio.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $75.0M, July 2022
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bighat-biosciences

BigHat Biosciences, founded in 2019 and based in San Mateo, California, is a biotechnology firm specializing in the discovery and engineering of antibodies. The company leverages its proprietary Milliner platform, which integrates a high-speed wet lab with advanced machine learning technologies, to accelerate the development of innovative antibody therapies. BigHat's mission is to design safer and more effective treatments for patients facing challenging diseases, including cancers and infections. The company has successfully raised over $100 million in funding, with a notable $75 million Series B round completed in July 2022. Their strategic collaborations with industry giants like AbbVie and Merck highlight their commitment to advancing therapeutic solutions and their active role in the biotechnology industry.

14. TRexBio

• Website: trex.bio
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $84.0M, November 2024
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: trexbio-inc

TRexBio, founded in 2018 and based in South San Francisco, California, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to advancing drug discovery and development for immune-mediated diseases. The company leverages its proprietary Deep Biology Platform, which focuses on understanding human tissue biology to identify novel therapeutics. By integrating modern sequencing technologies and computational tools with traditional drug discovery methods, TRexBio aims to create innovative treatments that address the underlying mechanisms of disease. Their primary clientele includes pharmaceutical companies and healthcare organizations seeking cutting-edge solutions. Recently, TRexBio secured $84 million in Series B funding, underscoring its growth potential and commitment to transforming the treatment landscape for immune-mediated conditions. The company is actively involved in clinical collaborations, including a partnership with Lilly to advance their therapeutic candidates into clinical trials.

15. Star Therapeutics

• Website: star-therapeutics.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series C, $90.0M, September 2023
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: star-tx

Star Therapeutics, based in South San Francisco, California, is a biotechnology firm founded in 2018. The company is dedicated to transforming the lives of patients suffering from serious diseases through the development of best-in-class antibody therapies. With a workforce of around 47 employees, Star Therapeutics operates with a venture capital ownership model, which allows for agile decision-making and innovation. Their recent funding of $90 million in September 2023 highlights their commitment to advancing their research and development efforts. The company’s pipeline includes therapies aimed at addressing significant gaps in treatment options, particularly in hematology and immunology. Their unique strategy involves identifying diseases with common biological pathways, enabling them to create therapies that can potentially treat multiple conditions simultaneously. This innovative approach positions Star Therapeutics as a promising player in the biotechnology sector.

16. Amberstone Biosciences

• Website: amberstonebio.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, $12.0M, January 2022
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: amberstone-biosciences

Amberstone Biosciences Inc. is a biotechnology firm based in Irvine, California, established in 2018. The company specializes in the development of advanced immunotherapeutics, particularly through its proprietary T-MATE™ technology. This innovative approach allows for tumor-activated therapies that aim to trigger immune responses specifically in tumors while sparing healthy tissues. Amberstone's focus on addressing significant challenges in cancer treatment positions it as a relevant player in the biotechnology sector. The company primarily serves healthcare providers and organizations seeking cutting-edge therapeutic solutions. With a recent Series A funding round of $12 million completed in January 2022, Amberstone is poised for further development and expansion in the field of cancer therapeutics.

17. 858 Therapeutics

• Website: 8five8tx.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: 858-therapeutics

858 Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2019. The company specializes in drug discovery and development, with a particular focus on oncology and immunology. They are developing a portfolio of small molecule drugs that target novel therapeutic areas, including their lead program, a PARG inhibitor currently in early clinical development. The company aims to create innovative treatments for patients suffering from cancer and immune diseases. Their scientific team is composed of experienced professionals with a history of success in the pharmaceutical industry, which enhances their potential for impactful contributions to the field. 858 Therapeutics operates within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, catering to healthcare organizations and patients seeking advanced therapeutic options.

18. Lycia Therapeutics

• Website: lyciatx.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series C, $106.6M, May 2024
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lycia-therapeutics

Lycia Therapeutics, based in South San Francisco, California, is a biotechnology firm established in 2020. The company specializes in the development of therapeutics using its proprietary LYTAC (Lysosomal Targeting Chimera) platform. This innovative approach aims to address difficult-to-treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases by enabling targeted degradation of extracellular proteins. Lycia's pipeline includes first-in-class LYTAC degraders that target previously intractable proteins. The company has attracted significant investment, securing $106.6 million in a Series C funding round in May 2024, which will help advance its clinical programs. With a team of experienced professionals and a strong scientific foundation, Lycia Therapeutics is positioned to make a meaningful impact in the biotechnology sector.

19. Triplebar

• Website: triplebarbio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Emeryville, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: triplebar-bio

Triplebar is a biotechnology firm based in Emeryville, California, founded in 2019. The company specializes in creating innovative solutions for food and healthcare, focusing on cultivated meat and seafood, bioactive proteins, and precision medicine. Their products aim to address pressing global issues such as food scarcity and healthcare accessibility. By leveraging advanced technologies like precision fermentation and AI, Triplebar accelerates biological research and product development, making essential proteins more affordable and sustainable. Their platform is designed to optimize microbial production, ensuring high-quality nutrition while minimizing environmental impact. Triplebar collaborates with food manufacturers and healthcare providers, showcasing their adaptability and commitment to meeting market needs. The company is actively involved in developing solutions that promise to revolutionize food production and pharmaceutical development, positioning itself as a significant player in the biotechnology industry.

20. Kite Pharma

• Website: kitepharma.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, Netherlands 28%, United Kingdom (UK) 2%, Other 5%
• Latest funding: $11.9B, August 2017
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kite-pharma-inc-

Kite Pharma, founded in 2009 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative cancer immunotherapy products. The company specializes in CAR T-cell therapies, which utilize the patient's own immune system to target and attack cancer cells. Kite Pharma's mission is to transform cancer treatment by making cell therapy accessible to as many patients as possible. They have established a robust pipeline of therapies and are actively involved in clinical trials to explore new treatment options for various blood cancers. Kite's commitment to research and development is evident in their collaborations and partnerships, including a significant agreement with the National Cancer Institute. Since being acquired by Gilead Sciences in 2017, Kite has continued to operate independently while benefiting from Gilead's extensive resources, allowing them to push the boundaries of cancer treatment further.

Biotechnology Insights: Key Companies in California

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
BioLegend	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2002	Corporate
HemaCare Corporation, a Charles River Company	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1978	Corporate
Calico Life Sciences	South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2013	Venture Capital
Takara Bio USA, Inc.	San Jose, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1984	Corporate
Versant Ventures	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Private
Eikon Therapeutics	Hayward, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2019	Private Equity
Hexagon Bio	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2016	Venture Capital
ProMab Biotechnologies, Inc.	Richmond, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2001	Corporate
Hinge Bio	Burlingame, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	Venture Capital
Mammoth Biosciences	Brisbane, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2017	Private Equity
NantKwest	Culver City, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2002	Corporate
Mapp Biopharmaceutical Inc	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2003	Private
BigHat Biosciences	San Mateo, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2019	Venture Capital
TRexBio	South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2018	Venture Capital
Star Therapeutics	South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2018	Venture Capital
Amberstone Biosciences	Irvine, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2018	Venture Capital
858 Therapeutics	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2019	Private
Lycia Therapeutics	South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2020	Private Equity
Triplebar	Emeryville, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2019	Private
Kite Pharma	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2009	Corporate

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