Over $300,000 in equity and non-dilutive funding will be invested in science-driven startups through the NorCal AngelCon Deep Tech 2026 program, a regional investment and education initiative focused on building the next generation of high-growth companies in the Greater Sacramento area. Designed to strengthen the early-stage investment ecosystem, the program connects new and emerging angel investors with high-potential deep tech startups while providing a structured, hands-on approach to evaluating and funding innovation.
The 2026 Deep Tech edition builds on the original AngelCon model with a specific focus on sectors such as life sciences, agrifood technology, health and medical devices, biomanufacturing, and cleantech and ZEV technologies. The program aligns with the region’s growing research capacity, including the opening of Aggie Square and Sacramento State’s advancement to R2 research classification, which together are expanding the local pipeline of research, intellectual property, and technical founders.
NorCal AngelCon Deep Tech is developed by Growth Factory in partnership with the Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Sacramento State, Connect Labs by Wexford, and the UC Davis Student Startup Center. The initiative was selected as a recipient of the 2025 SBA Growth Accelerator Fund Competition under the Capital Formation theme.
For Founders: Is This Program Right for You?
NorCal AngelCon Deep Tech is designed for science-driven startups in the Greater Sacramento region that are building products rooted in research, engineering, or university innovation. Eligible companies must be incorporated, show early traction, and have a capable team with at least one full-time member.
Selected startups receive more than access to capital. The program includes founder training, pitch preparation, mentorship, and direct exposure to an engaged group of angel investors. Participants also benefit from a structured diligence process that strengthens their company’s story, sharpens their fundraising readiness, and increases visibility with future investors.
Historically, AngelCon investments have included both equity and non-dilutive funding, helping startups move from early validation toward scale. Applications are due by February 6. Startups can apply here.
Why Angel Investors Are Paying Attention
NorCal AngelCon Deep Tech offers a structured and practical entry point for accredited investors who are interested in angel investing but may not yet have experience evaluating early stage deep tech companies. Investors participate in a guided process that includes education, deal evaluation, and collaborative diligence.
The program provides hands on exposure to how early stage investments are sourced, assessed, and selected. Investors work alongside peers to review companies, participate in training sessions, and engage directly with founders. The educational component of the program is offered at no cost, and investors commit capital directly to selected startups, with a low minimum investment threshold.
By activating new local investors and keeping capital within the region, the program helps address a common gap faced by early stage startups that struggle to access seed funding locally. If you are interested in becoming an investor, you may apply for the program here.
Program Timeline: What to Expect and When
The NorCal AngelCon Deep Tech 2026 program runs from January through May.
For investors, commitments are due by February 6, with angel training sessions beginning in February and continuing through early April. Investors participate in selecting semifinalists, conducting diligence, and ultimately choosing finalists for investment at the public showcase.
For startups, applications are due February 6. Semifinalists are notified later in the month, followed by founder training sessions in March and early April. Finalists pitch to investors in April, with the program concluding at the final showcase and investment selection event on May 7.
January 22: In-Person Networking and Info Session
An in person networking and information session will take place on January 22 from 5 to 7 pm at Aggie Square. This event is open to prospective investors, founders, and ecosystem partners who want to learn more about the Deep Tech edition of NorCal AngelCon.
The session provides an opportunity to hear directly from program organizers, ask questions about participation, and connect with others interested in deep tech investing and startup growth in the Sacramento region.
Details:
When: Thursday, January 22, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Where: UC Davis Aggie Square, 4480 2nd Ave, Sacramento, CA 95817
RSVP: Here
Building Long-Term Impact in the Sacramento Region
NorCal AngelCon Deep Tech is designed to create lasting impact beyond a single investment cycle. By educating investors, supporting founders, and fostering collaboration across universities and innovation hubs, the program helps build a repeatable and sustainable engine for capital formation.
The focus on retaining innovation locally supports talent retention, company formation, and long term economic growth. Startups leave the program better prepared for follow on funding, and investors gain the skills and confidence to continue participating in early stage investing within the region.
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