Connect Announces 2026 Class of Cool Companies Highlighting San Diego's Venture-Ready Startups

SAN DIEGO - March 17, 2026 - PRLog -- Connect today announced the newest class of 24 startups selected for Cool Companies, the organization's annual capital program spotlighting venture-ready technology and life sciences companies preparing to raise institutional funding.

Each year, Connect identifies promising Southern California startups and connects them with investors, advisors, and industry leaders through curated introductions, networking, and guidance. This year, Connect judges reviewed 134 companies across the innovation ecosystem.

Since 2015, companies selected for Connect's Cool Companies program have collectively raised more than $1 billion in Series A funding, highlighting the program's role in helping founders reach a critical stage of growth while strengthening the region's innovation economy.

"Cool Companies is about identifying startups approaching a pivotal moment," said Petra Stegmann, PhD, Head of Entrepreneurial Programs at Connect. "These companies are building ambitiously and preparing to scale. Our goal is to connect them with investors, advisors, and the community that can help them take the next step."

The program focuses on companies across technology, life sciences, and emerging industries preparing to raise institutional capital. Founders gain access to Connect's network of venture capital firms, experienced entrepreneurs, and industry experts.

Participants engage directly with investors through curated meetings and events, gain visibility within the innovation ecosystem, and build relationships that support growth.

Learn more about Connect's Cool Companies program at https://connect.org/cool-companies.

Series A Investors: Contact Petra Stegmann, Connect's Head of Entrepreneurial Programs, to learn how to access this year's cohort at Connect's VC Roadshow on April 15 in San Diego. Reach out at petra@connect.org.

2026 Cool Companies List:
3D BioAnalytiX, Inc. <https://3dbioanalytix.com>
A28 Therapeutics <https://a28therapeutics.com/>
Aervivo <https://aervivo.com>
Alleo Labs <https://alleolabs.com>
Amptron Medical <https://amptronmedical.com>
AquaPoro Technologies, Inc <https://aquaporo.com>
AskTuring.ai <https://askturing.ai>
Atmosfy <https://atmosfy.io>
Avanti Biosciences, Inc. <https://www.avantibiosciences.com/>
Channel Robotics <https://channelrobotics.com>
Clinically AI <https://www.clinicalnotes.ai/>
Cove Therapeutics, Inc. <https://covetx.com>
CpG Diagnostics <https://cpgdiagnostics.com>
Ecodrive <https://www.ecodrive.community/>
HyperKelp Inc <https://hyperkelp.com>
Icarus RT, Inc <https://icarusrt.com>
MyoGene Bio <https://myogenebio.com>
PSYONIC <https://psyonic.io>
Saferide.ai Inc <https://saferide.ai>
Sarpeda Inc. <https://sarpeda.com>
Sesh Incorporated <https://www.oncologysesh.com/>
Syrna Therapeutics, Inc. <https://syrnatx.com>
Third Element Bio <https://thirdelementbio.com>
Xzōm <https://xzom.com>