Ventura
A bit of history
Father Junipero Serra founded Mission San Buenaventura in 1782, and the surrounding settlement was incorporated as the town of San Buenaventura in 1866, later becoming the Ventura County seat in 1873. Union Oil Company, organized in 1890, opened a major local oil field in 1914 that at its peak produced 90,000 barrels a day, while area citrus growers helped found Sunkist Growers in 1908. The 1910s-30s oil boom and agricultural growth brought waves of new residents, roads, and infrastructure to the city. Ventura's economy today still reflects that mix of energy, agriculture, and its mission-era roots.
Seed$7.3MFounded in Ventura, CA by Polish immigrant Kuba Graczyk, the 3D-printed footwear manufacturer raised a $7.2M seed round led by Uncork Capital in 2025.
$4.6MCheck out the latest expert insight, news and case studies in agricultural innovation for development with Farming First.
$1.4MRincon Consultants, Inc. was founded in 1994 and has grown to be a leading environmental consulting firm throughout California.
Seed$499KThis Los Angeles-based Novella AI was co-founded by CEO Michael Morello along with Gasper Chiaramonte and Averee Chang in July 2023, and raised capital through a Wefunder crowdfunding campaign (not to be confused with a separate, similarly-named AI insurance brokerage founded by ex-Lemonade employees).
$441KTopa Topa Brewing Co. Good Vibes. Great Beers. Brewed in California.
$75K