Venture capital firms in California play a pivotal role in fostering innovation by providing financial support and expertise to startups. These firms typically invest in technology and healthcare sectors, helping entrepreneurs transform their ideas into viable businesses. As the industry evolves, partnerships between VC firms and emerging markets are becoming prominent, leading to an expanded focus on sustainable and social impact investing. Statistics show a steady growth in seed funding rounds, reflecting optimism in bringing pioneering solutions to life globally. Furthermore, access to vast networks and mentorship is a crucial advantage that these firms offer their portfolio companies.

The companies highlighted here range in size, originating from small teams to larger outfits, with most headquartered in Menlo Park, Palo Alto, or San Francisco. Established throughout several decades from 1961 to 2010, these firms typically specialize in early-stage investments, primarily focusing on technology, healthcare, and consumer products. With a track record of success, they often make significant contributions to the startup ecosystem, assisting entrepreneurs in various fields from artificial intelligence to healthcare solutions.

Continue reading to explore the top venture capital firms in California.

Top 20 Venture Capital Firms Companies in California

1. Accel

• Website: accel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 52%, India 30%, United Kingdom (UK) 13%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: accel-vc

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, headquartered in Palo Alto, California. The firm specializes in investing in startups and early-stage companies, primarily within the technology sector. With a workforce of approximately 1120 employees, Accel operates through its offices in Palo Alto and San Francisco, and has additional funds in London, India, and China. The firm is known for its strategic investments that help emerging companies grow and succeed. Accel has a strong track record of supporting innovative businesses, which has solidified its reputation in the venture capital industry. Its global reach and focus on technology-driven startups highlight its commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

2. Andreessen Horowitz

• Website: a16z.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: andreessen-horowitz

Andreessen Horowitz, also known as a16z, is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups and growth-stage companies across a variety of sectors, including healthcare, fintech, and gaming. With a team composed largely of former entrepreneurs and executives, a16z provides not only financial backing but also strategic guidance and access to a vast network of resources. This includes connections to industry experts, marketing resources, and potential partners, which are crucial for startups navigating the competitive landscape. The firm has committed $43 billion across multiple funds, reflecting its substantial influence in the venture capital arena. Their proactive stance on political issues affecting technology startups, particularly in advocating for policies that support innovation, further underscores their commitment to fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem.

3. Kleiner Perkins

• Website: kleinerperkins.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, China 3%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: kleiner-perkins

Kleiner Perkins is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, established in 1972. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth companies, particularly in the technology and life sciences sectors. Over the decades, Kleiner Perkins has backed more than 900 ventures, showcasing its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs with bold ideas. The firm not only provides capital but also offers strategic guidance to help these companies scale effectively. With a focus on innovation, Kleiner Perkins has been involved in significant trends, including the rise of the internet, mobile computing, and biotechnology. Their recent initiatives, such as the Kleiner Perkins Fellows program, further demonstrate their dedication to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. The firm has adapted to changing market conditions, emphasizing a return to its roots as a venture boutique focused on early-stage investments, which positions it well for future opportunities.

4. 500 Global

• Website: 500.co
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 59%, Singapore 6%, Mexico 5%, Other 29%
• Latest funding: February 2021
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global, formerly known as 500 Startups, is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California. Founded in 2010, the firm focuses on investing in early-stage technology companies worldwide. With a robust portfolio that includes over 2,900 startups, 500 Global has backed more than 35 companies valued at over $1 billion and over 160 companies valued at more than $100 million. The firm operates a flagship accelerator program that has been pivotal in helping founders navigate the complexities of launching and scaling their businesses. Through its global network, 500 Global provides not only funding but also mentorship, educational resources, and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs. The firm is dedicated to fostering innovation and supporting startups in various markets, making it a key player in the venture capital industry.

5. Benchmark

• Website: benchmark.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Woodside, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 77%, India 6%, Egypt 6%, Other 11%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: benchmark-vc

Benchmark is a venture capital firm based in Woodside, California, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing funding and strategic support to startups and small businesses, particularly within the technology sector. Benchmark has made significant investments in high-profile companies such as eBay and Uber, helping these businesses scale and thrive in competitive markets. With a team of experienced professionals, Benchmark focuses on identifying innovative ideas and nurturing them through their early stages. The firm operates primarily in the United States, with a small percentage of its workforce distributed across countries like India, Egypt, China, and Israel. Benchmark's commitment to supporting emerging companies positions it as a relevant player in the venture capital industry.

6. Plug and Play Tech Center

• Website: plugandplaytechcenter.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 47%, Spain 16%, Germany 5%, Other 32%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $2.0M, February 2025
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: plug-and-play-tech-center

Plug and Play Tech Center, founded in 2006 and based in Sunnyvale, California, operates as an innovation hub and venture capital firm. With a workforce of over 1,200 employees, the company specializes in connecting startups with corporations to drive growth and innovation. They offer a variety of programs, including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities, primarily targeting the technology sector. Plug and Play's approach is centered on facilitating partnerships and providing essential resources that enhance business development. Their extensive network spans multiple industries, including fintech, health, and mobility, showcasing their commitment to fostering innovation across various fields. Recently, they secured funding of $2 million, further solidifying their position in the venture capital landscape.

7. Canaan

• Website: canaan.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 79%, Kenya 4%, Malaysia 4%, Other 13%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: canaan-partners

Canaan is an early-stage venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1987. The firm specializes in investing in technology and healthcare sectors, providing both capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. Canaan has built a reputation for partnering with visionaries who have transformative ideas, helping them navigate the complexities of bringing their innovations to market. With a portfolio that boasts 59 IPOs and 134 M&As, Canaan has demonstrated a strong track record of successful investments. Recently, they have raised over $1 billion to support their healthcare and technology investment teams, focusing on areas with significant unmet needs. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and personalized support, ensuring that portfolio companies receive the resources and guidance necessary for growth and success.

8. Greylock

• Website: greylock.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, United Kingdom (UK) 2%
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: greylock-partners

Greylock Partners is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, specializing in early-stage technology investments. Founded in 1965, Greylock has built a reputation for backing innovative companies across various sectors, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer technology. The firm is known for its hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic support to founders navigating the complexities of building successful businesses. Greylock's portfolio includes iconic names like Airbnb, Facebook, and LinkedIn, showcasing its ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups. Their Greylock Edge program further exemplifies their commitment to early-stage companies, offering a bespoke three-month company-building initiative designed to help founders refine their ideas and achieve product-market fit. This proactive engagement with startups positions Greylock as a significant player in the venture capital industry.

9. Dfj

• Website: dfj.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, China 6%, India 6%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: draper-fisher-jurvetson

Draper Fisher Jurvetson (DFJ) is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, with a focus on providing investment capital to startups and growth-stage companies. Founded in 1985, DFJ has built a reputation for its commitment to technology and innovation, guiding entrepreneurs through the funding process to help them scale their businesses. The firm boasts a team of experienced partners who develop investment strategies aimed at fostering growth in the tech sector. DFJ has a significant presence in the United States, with a smaller footprint in China and India, reflecting its global investment approach. While specific funding details are not available, the firm has historically been involved in various successful ventures, contributing to its standing in the venture capital community.

10. Norwest

• Website: nvp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, India 9%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: norwest-venture-partners

Norwest Venture Partners, founded in 1961 and based in Menlo Park, California, is a venture capital and growth equity investment firm. The firm specializes in providing funding and strategic support to companies across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Norwest partners with entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, offering not only financial investment but also a wealth of resources and expertise. Their team is composed of seasoned professionals who have experience in operations and business development, allowing them to provide tailored guidance to portfolio companies. Norwest has a significant presence in North America, India, and Israel, and actively invests in sectors such as consumer products, B2B SaaS, and healthcare. Their commitment to responsible investing and support for their portfolio companies positions them as a notable player in the venture capital industry.

11. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

• Website: nea.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. With a team of around 200 professionals, NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services, primarily targeting startups in the technology and healthcare sectors. The firm prides itself on crafting enduring partnerships with entrepreneurs, offering not just financial support but also strategic guidance throughout the company-building process. NEA's portfolio includes a range of successful companies that have made significant contributions to their respective industries. Their collaborative approach and commitment to long-term relationships with founders highlight their role as active participants in the startup ecosystem. NEA's expertise in navigating the complexities of the market allows them to provide valuable insights and support to the companies they invest in, reinforcing their relevance in the venture capital field.

12. Tcv

• Website: tcv.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, United Kingdom (UK) 16%, Luxembourg 3%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: technology-crossover-ventures

TCV, or Technology Crossover Ventures, is an investment firm based in Menlo Park, California, specializing in growth equity investments in technology companies. Since its inception in 1995, TCV has focused on partnering with mission-driven teams, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance to help businesses scale and achieve market leadership. The firm targets both public and private growth-stage companies across various technology sectors, reflecting a broad interest in innovation. TCV has a notable portfolio that includes high-profile companies such as Netflix, Nubank, and Miro, showcasing their ability to identify and support category-defining technology firms. With approximately $21 billion in assets under management, TCV is well-positioned to make significant investments and maintain active involvement in the companies they support, emphasizing a long-term commitment to their partners' success.

13. GGV Capital

• Website: ggvc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ggv-capital-us

GGV Capital is a private venture capital firm founded in 2000, headquartered in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing in startups and emerging companies, particularly in the technology and artificial intelligence sectors. With a robust portfolio, GGV Capital has invested in over 200 companies, achieving around 30 IPOs. They manage approximately $9 billion in assets, reflecting their significant influence in the venture capital arena. Recently, GGV Capital restructured into two separate brands: Granite Asia, which focuses on investments in the APAC region, and Notable Capital, which targets the U.S., Israel, Europe, and Latin America. This strategic move allows them to better serve their portfolio companies and adapt to the evolving market landscape. Their investments include well-known names such as Airbnb, Grab, and HashiCorp, showcasing their ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups.

14. GV (Google Ventures)

• Website: gv.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco Bay Area, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: gv

GV (Google Ventures), established in 2009, is a venture capital firm based in the San Francisco Bay Area. It operates under the umbrella of Alphabet Inc., with a singular focus on funding and supporting innovative technology startups. With over $10 billion in assets under management, GV has invested in a wide array of sectors, including life sciences, artificial intelligence, and consumer technology. The firm prides itself on its partnership approach, working closely with founders to navigate the complexities of building successful companies. GV's portfolio includes notable names such as Uber, Nest, and GitLab, showcasing its ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups. The firm also emphasizes long-term relationships, operating on extended time horizons to foster sustainable growth and innovation within its portfolio companies.

15. General Catalyst

• Website: generalcatalyst.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, India 7%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: general-catalyst-partners

General Catalyst is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth investments, primarily in technology and healthcare sectors. General Catalyst provides not only capital but also strategic guidance to help startups and growth-stage companies scale effectively. With a team of experienced professionals, they focus on fostering innovation and driving impactful change within their portfolio companies. Their investments include notable names such as Cityblock Health, which aims to improve healthcare access for underserved communities, and Canva, a platform that democratizes design. General Catalyst's approach emphasizes collaboration and co-creation, as seen in their initiatives like Maribel, which integrates home and community-based care within the healthcare continuum. This commitment to enhancing the operational capabilities of their portfolio companies underscores their active role in the venture capital industry.

16. Crosslink Capital

• Website: crosslinkcapital.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Nigeria 15%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: crosslink-capital

Crosslink Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1989. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing not only financial backing but also strategic guidance and access to a robust network of industry leaders. With approximately $4.6 billion in assets under management, Crosslink has facilitated over 50 exits, including 17 initial public offerings (IPOs). Their investment strategy typically involves seed and Series A funding, with initial investments ranging from $1 million to $9 million. Crosslink's portfolio features a variety of market disruptors across different sectors, showcasing their ability to identify and support innovative companies. Additionally, their Alpha network, established in 2005, connects over 2,000 founders, CEOs, and investors, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among technology leaders. This network is a key component of their value proposition, enhancing the support they provide to their portfolio companies.

17. Bessemer Venture Partners

• Website: bvp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 79%, India 14%, Hong Kong S.A.R 2%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 1911
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bessemer-venture-partners

Bessemer Venture Partners is a private venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, with a history that spans over a century. Founded in 1911, the firm specializes in providing funding and investment management services to startups and growth-stage companies. Bessemer operates across multiple sectors, including technology, healthcare, and financial services, which allows them to support a wide range of innovative businesses. The firm is known for its strategic approach to investment, focusing on helping companies access the capital they need to scale effectively. With a team of experienced professionals, Bessemer Venture Partners actively engages with its portfolio companies, offering insights and resources to foster growth and success. Their global reach includes significant operations in the United States, India, and Hong Kong, reflecting their commitment to identifying and nurturing talent in various markets.

18. Nlvc

• Website: nlvc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: China 81%, Hong Kong S.A.R 14%, United States (USA) 5%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: northern-light-venture-capital

NLVC, based in Menlo Park, California, is a venture capital firm established in 2005. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in technology companies across three primary sectors: enterprise, healthcare, and consumer. With a portfolio that includes over 400 companies, NLVC has made a notable impact in the venture capital industry. Their investment strategy is centered on providing not only financial support but also valuable insights and operational guidance to entrepreneurs. The team at NLVC comprises individuals with extensive backgrounds in technology and healthcare, having worked at prominent companies like Facebook, Google, and Johnson & Johnson. This blend of experience allows them to effectively identify and nurture opportunities that align with technological advancements and societal changes.

19. Redpoint

• Website: redpoint.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, China 6%, Brazil 3%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: redpointventures

Redpoint Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, providing capital and strategic support to startups across various sectors, including consumer, fintech, and healthcare. Redpoint has a history of partnering with innovative entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of growing their businesses. Over the years, they have invested in a range of companies, from well-known names like Stripe and Twilio to emerging startups in sectors like AI and healthcare. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and support, aiming to foster a thriving startup ecosystem. Redpoint's team is composed of experienced professionals who leverage their industry knowledge to assist portfolio companies in achieving their growth objectives.

20. DCM Ventures

• Website: dcm.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 53%, China 33%, Netherlands 5%, Other 9%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dcm

DCM Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, with additional offices in Beijing and Tokyo. Established in 1996, DCM specializes in early-stage investments, primarily focusing on technology companies. The firm manages over $4 billion in assets and has invested in more than 400 companies across the U.S. and Asia. DCM's investment strategy targets seed, series A, and series B funding rounds, emphasizing sectors such as mobile, consumer internet, and software services. The firm prides itself on its hands-on approach, offering not just capital but also operational guidance to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of building successful startups. DCM has a notable portfolio that includes 35 unicorns, showcasing its ability to identify and nurture high-potential companies. Their commitment to empowering entrepreneurs is evident in their operational support, which spans areas like go-to-market strategies, product development, financial planning, and talent acquisition.

Venture Capital Firms Insights: Key Companies in California

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Accel	Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1983	Private
Andreessen Horowitz	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2009	Private
Kleiner Perkins	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1972	Private
500 Global	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2010	Private Equity
Benchmark	Woodside, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1995	Private
Plug and Play Tech Center	Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2006	Private
Canaan	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1987	Private
Greylock	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1965	Private
Dfj	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1985	Private
Norwest	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1961	Private
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1977	Private
Tcv	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1995	Private
GGV Capital	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2000	Private
GV (Google Ventures)	San Francisco Bay Area, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Private
General Catalyst	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2000	Private
Crosslink Capital	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1989	Private
Bessemer Venture Partners	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1911	Private
Nlvc	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private
Redpoint	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Private
DCM Ventures	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private

Want to Find More Venture Capital Firms Companies?

If you want to find more companies that provide funding and strategic guidance for emerging businesses you can do so with Inven. This list was built with Inven and there are hundreds of companies like these globally.

With Inven you'll also get to know the company's:

• Detailed Ownership: Who owns the company? Is it a public or private company? What is the ownership structure?
• Contact data: Who are the founders and CEO's? What are their emails and phone numbers?
• Financials: How do these companies perform financially? What are their revenues and profit margins?

...and a lot more!