California will distribute more than $2 million in innovation grants to 37 startups across 17 counties — including Santa Barbara and Ventura — to support the development of new technologies and business solutions, Governor Gavin Newsom announced on March 5, 2026.
The funding is provided through the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) and supports companies developing innovations in sectors including health technology, clean energy, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing.
According to the state, half of the selected companies are women-owned, highlighting an effort to expand opportunities for a more diverse group of entrepreneurs…