California HealthCare Foundation

The California Health Care Foundation's (CHCF) Innovation Fund is a venture arm that invests in early- and growth-stage companies focused on improving healthcare access, quality, and equity for underserved populations in California. The fund targets innovative startups that align with CHCF's mission to enhance care in the safety net, especially for low-income individuals and communities of color. CHCF typically makes investments ranging from $50,000 to $1 million, with an emphasis on tech-enabled healthcare solutions. Notable portfolio companies include Motivo Health, which connects aspiring therapists to clinical supervisors, and Twentyeight Health, offering telehealth services for reproductive care in underserved communities. The fund also supports RubiconMD, a platform that facilitates specialist e-consults for primary care providers. The Innovation Fund stands out by focusing on social impact over financial returns, blending program-related investments with grant support to scale solutions across California. They actively seek diverse founders, particularly from Black, Latinx, and female-led ventures, aiming to close gaps in traditional venture capital access. Startups can contact the fund directly, with a preference for those that already have clients or partnerships within the state.