2024 Impact Report

Impact Report

Letter from Octane’s CEO

I am delighted to share the remarkable journey we’ve taken together in 2023. Recently a good friend told me that “connection is at the heart of all success.” Another friend added that his success was based upon the talent he hired “showing up every day.” What simple yet profound statements. At Octane, connecting is at the root of what our team does every day, and every day we show up.

Orange County has solidified its position as the #1 Medtech hub domestically, according to a recent report by the global real estate firm, JLL. This achievement is a celebration of the collective dedication, focus, and energy embodied by Octane’s mission, our partners, sponsors, and the community.

The JLL report forecasts an increase in venture capital investments and significant M&A activity over the next five years, highlighting the bright future ahead for the companies we serve. Octane is immensely proud to be an integral part of this flourishing ecosystem, hosting events that put innovation center stage, allowing industry leaders to collaborate, and shape the future of the healthcare and technology industries. Our commitment to accelerating innovation, facilitating collaboration, and supporting groundbreaking ideas remains unwavering. The collective impact of the medtech industry is driving this recognition of Orange County and compliments the success the tech industry has locally.

In 2023, Octane Foundation for Innovation introduced our second product with the proof of concept for healthsocal.ai’s mental health solution—Mindex. Our summary of key performance metrics is on the following pages, and it reflects a solid base to build upon for 2024 and beyond.

Looking ahead, while we acknowledge potential headwinds in 2024, Octane remains steadfast in its commitment to connecting people, resources, and capital. Our Foundation for Innovation continues to bring diverse ideas and leaders to the forefront.

In closing, I want to express my gratitude to our partners, sponsors, and individuals who believe and support Octane’s mission. Your continued confidence and support inspire our team to continue building sustained impact, and I am committed to ensuring Octane’s long-term success in 2024 and beyond. I have never been so energized and optimistic about our future.

Best Regards,

Bill Carpou CEO, OCTANE

Celine Martin, Company Group Chairman of Cardiovascular & Specialty Solutions (CSS) Group, Johnson & Johnson (right) and Ramin Mousavi, President of Cathworks speaking at Cardiovascular Tech Summit on “Changing the Trajectory of Heart Health Globally“.

Your Go-To Platform for Tech and MedTech Industry Navigation

DIVERSE CONTENT HUB

For insightful medtech and tech industry content, Octane is your go-to source.

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Experience unparalleled networking opportunities at our six signature events, where industry leaders converge to shape the future.

INVESTOR NETWORK

ON-DEMAND ACCESS

Enjoy the flexibility of viewing industry content at your convenience through our library of speaker and panel recordings.

INVESTOR SUPPORT

Need assistance with your investor deck? Octane delivers valuable insights and expertise to elevate your pitch through our LaunchPad accelerator.

Access a vast network of private and institutional investors through Octane Capital Assist to fund your company.

COMMUNITY BUILDING

Octane fosters innovation, creates highpaying jobs, and has made an impact 36,405 times and counting.

RESOURCE CONNECTIONS

Octane makes introductions to our preferred providers to facilitate your journey from ideation to commercialization.

ADVANCING HEALTHCARE

Contribute to the advancement of healthcare and mental health with Octane’s initiative, healthsocal.ai.

WOMEN LEADERS EMPOWERMENT

Support the growth and funding of womenfounded businesses with Women Leaders of Octane.

NON-PROFIT ACCELERATOR

Empower underserved communities, especially children and young adults.

GENERATIONAL IMPACT

If you aspire to make a generational difference for our children and grandchildren, Octane is your platform of choice.

DATA-DRIVEN DECISIONS

Utilize data for informed investment decisions with Haystax, an Octane innovation.

STEAM EDUCATION ADVOCACY

Inspire STEAM education career paths and fuel talent development.

NEXT WAVE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Prepare the next generation of community leaders with Octane’s Next Wave program.

OUR MISSION

Octane leads a diverse innovation community, accelerating access to capital, resources & solutions, while providing high-value support to our partners and clients.

LaunchPad SBDC, our

awardwinning accelerator program, is generously offered pro-bono thanks to the support of

SBDC and SBA

Our comprehensive program optimizes presentation assets and capital funding strategies for local life sciences/device and technology startups who are in the growth and commercialization stage of their startup journey.

This program encompasses four essential components:

Enhancing your capital funding strategy to ensure a top-notch investor presentation and readiness for your next round of investment capital

Providing valuable feedback from internal and external subject matter experts spanning product launch strategies to foundational processes

Offering predictive analytics for detailed quantitative insights into your company's future success

As alumni, granting you access to a network of seasoned and vetted advisors and professionals who actively advocate on behalf of your startup

LAUNCHPAD SBDC ALUMNI SUCCESS STORIES

Drew Taylor, MSc, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Acorn Biolabs with Will Hall, Chief Operating Officer of Acorn Biolabs at Octane’s Aesthetics Tech Forum.

Telesair Raises $46.15M in Series A Funding!

Telesair, a medical device startup based in Irvine engaged with us to enhance their presentation assets, identify and address vulnerabilities, and gain the confidence to pitch to investors.

But the journey didn’t end there; we continued to collaborate with them on their strategy for their Series A round. They successfully closed last year, raising an impressive total of $46.2M! Since then, Telesair achieved their CE mark and FDA clearance, marking significant milestones in their journey to success. A true local success story!

Acorn Biolabs Secures Series A Funding

Led by Merz Aesthetics

Merz Aesthetics has spearheaded Acorn Biolabs’ Series A funding round, reinforcing the innovative strides in regenerative aesthetics. Acorn Biolabs pioneers non-invasive, follicle-based stem cell cryopreservation, offering the first-of-its-kind service for future regenerative treatments.

With Merz Aesthetics’ strategic investment, Acorn Biolabs is set to expand its operations in Canada and the U.S., gearing up for the launch of their groundbreaking topical aesthetic product in Q2 2024. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the intersection of regenerative aesthetics and personalized medicine. Cheers to Acorn Biolabs and their visionary pursuit of cutting-edge regenerative solutions!

Mike Hill, Managing Director, Octane Capital Markets with Andrew Hull, MBA, VP Marketing and Business Development of Telesair and Bryan Liu, CEO of Telesair at Octane’s Medical Innovation Forum.

Here’s what we accomplished.

TOTAL CAPITAL RAISED

$8.3B

raised by Octane LaunchPad SBDC Alumni & supported companies*

$6.9B

by Octane LaunchPad SBDC Alumni & supported companies*

by Octane*, with 395 in 2023

1,964 CAPITAL IN EXITS

HIGH-PAYING JOBS CREATED

33,421

by Octane LaunchPad SBDC Alumni and supporting companies*, with 5,049 created in 2023

COMPANIES ASSISTED CAPITAL RAISED

89%

percentage of Octane LaunchPad SBDC Alumni still operational*

$971.8M

by Octane LaunchPad SBDC Alumni & supported companies in 2023

Octane Capital & Growth

HAYSTAX

For investors and accelerators, Haystax is a decision intelligence Tool that can predict a startup’s fundability with 90% accuracy using ML, our Capital Readiness Rubric and our historical database of 80,000 data points.

PRODUCTS total companies evaluated since 2022

568

HAYSTAX

IN THE NEWS

Haystax was featured on the front page of the Orange County Business Journal!

AI Pitch Deck & Video Analysis

Pre-Screen Scoring Tool

Coachability Curve Index

Haystax GPT Judge

OCTANE GROWTH SERVICES

25+ functional service areas offered

In our commitment to foster the comprehensive growth of companies in the Octane ecosystem, Capital & Growth offers tailored growth services. This initiative taps into a network of top tier and vetted third-party resources, delivering operational expertise to small, midmarket, and large/mature companies.

Through our curated portfolio of Octane Preferred Advisors (OPAs), we provide exclusive access to best-in-class services with customized programs and pricing, expediting your journey to milestones and boosting revenue goals efficiently.

Octane Preferred Advisors deliver scalable, custom solutions across various functional

areas, including Human Resources, Finance & Accounting outsourcing, and Go-To-Market Strategy and Execution.

A standout feature of Octane Growth Services is our Executive Peer Groups. Tailored for CEOs in life sciences and Marketing leaders, these memberships offer a unique space for personal and professional growth. Designed to facilitate effective decision-making through focused peer input and confidential advisory groups, our Peer Groups empower executives to excel both individually and collectively.

Together, we shape the future of innovation, connectivity, and success within the Octane ecosystem.

Jane King, CEO of Lilamax, an Octane Preferred Advisor, interviewed Tom Nichols, President of Pretika Medtech, an Octane Portfolio client.

Kip Knight, Marketing Peer Group Coach (left) Earl Slee, Executive Peer Group Coach (right)

Marketing Peer Group

Octane Capital & Growth

CAPITAL ASSIST

This year, Octane Capital Assist has solidified its role as a key driver in the growth and success of startups. Our focused approach and strategic interventions have led to significant achievements for the companies we've partnered with. As we conclude the year, Octane Capital Assist remains committed to its mission of empowering startups. Through our targeted support and strategic guidance, we continue to be a valuable partner for startups looking to scale and succeed in a competitive landscape.

CAPITAL AND TEAM DEVELOPMENT

Beyond just funding, our efforts were instrumental in enriching teams.

This included recruitment of CEOs and Board Advisors, enhancing leadership and governance structures. These strategic moves have been crucial in driving company growth.

VISIBILITY AND RECOGNITION

All participating companies gained exposure through our stages at Octane events, providing them with valuable industry visibility.

Notably, five of these companies earned Judges Awards at three distinct events, highlighting their excellence and potential.

CAPITAL ASSIST LAUNCH

2023 marked the launch of the Capital Assist program, a fee-based initiative designed to streamline startup engagement with investors. This program provides targeted guidance and connections, simplifying the fundraising process for startups.

“

Octane put Trufacial on the map at Aesthetics Tech Forum and I can’t thank you enough!

DINA ELSHERIF

Shortly after presenting at Octane, we secured new investments. Octane’s continuous support has been crucial in navigating challenging funding scenarios.

ZACK DEFORD

CEO & Founder, SMERF

“

With Octane’s introductions and network, our venture has rapidly increased in value and successfully raised substantial capital.

DARRIN RASMUSSEN

President & CEO, Trufacial CEO and Founder, Bored & Thirsty

Octane Signature Event

Presenting Company Winners

YUVA BIOSCIENCES

I-LUMEN SCIENTIFIC & OKULOVISION

SMERF & THRIVELAB

IMACOR

healthsocal.ai, a pioneer in health-tech for social good, is dedicated to advancing the community's data marketplace for health AI solutions.

Our mission is to enhance health outcomes and equity in Southern California.

8

10

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS

Crafted with community partners, our solutions empower users with actionable insights, reshaping the health-tech landscape for a healthier, more equitable future.

health AI coalition partnerships educational engagements successful youth STEM collaborations with UCI

4

healthsocal.ai’s team spoke at the Karmant Learning Youth Wellness Workshop at Aliso Viejo High School.

INTRODUCING MINDEX

Our AI-powered recommendation engine, Mindex, is in its Proof-of-Concept phase, addressing the youth mental health crisis in Orange County post-COVID.

WOMEN LEADERS OF OCTANE

Women Leaders of Octane continued to thrive in its goal of increasing the ranks of women business leaders and entrepreneurs along with their access to funding and influence on boards. Over the past year, we organized wellattended quarterly meetings featuring influential women as Spotlight Thought Leaders. The initiative also facilitated various board preparation and funding programs throughout the year, contributing to the success and growth of women-led ventures.

A notable expansion includes enhanced support services designed specifically for women-led businesses. To address the national shortfall of capital secured by women-led businesses, we are actively exploring the establishment of a women-led business fund to further bolster entrepreneurial endeavors.

Additionally, the Women Leaders of Octane Board Registry continues to grow and add members and place women on boards. The Registry serves as a platform showcasing accomplished women ready to contribute their expertise to corporate boards, providing companies with a valuable resource for diversifying and strengthening their leadership teams.

The Women Leaders of Octane initiative remains dedicated to breaking barriers, fostering growth, and championing diversity in the business world. Through collaborative efforts and ongoing support, we are shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future for women leaders within the Octane community and beyond.

410+ 250+

Members of Women Leaders of Octane Leaders in the Women on Boards Registry

15

earlier stage, women-founded life science companies

The inaugural Women Leaders of Octane Start Up Lab program was launched with fifteen (15) earlier stage, women-founded life science companies, and featured an eight-month course of coaching, mentoring and workshops conducted by SBDC Senior Advisors and Subject Matter Experts.

The workshops were hosted by RSM US LLP and focused on business plan development, funding, operations, presentation/storytelling and more.

Pictured: Natalie Harney, CBPA, Certified Business Performance Advisor, Insperity at the Women’s Leaders of Octane Kick-Off Breakfast, a part of Octane’s Tech Innovation Forum.

NON-PROFIT ACCELERATOR

In Southern California, numerous non-profits work to drive positive change, but many face the ongoing challenge of sustaining their business plans. Octane addresses this issue by utilizing our acclaimed LaunchPad SBDC process to bolster the fiscal sustainability of non-profits and enhance their impact in the community. We specifically target non-profits advancing STEM programs, particularly those serving underrepresented communities. Our initiative centers on three main goals:

1 2 3

AMPLIFYING IMPACT

Utilizing the LaunchPad SBDC Accelerator process, we enable non-profits to make a greater and lasting impact in the community.

INCREASING GRANTS & FUNDING

Our Non-Profit Accelerator program assists non-profits in refining strategies and presentations to secure vital grants and funding.

PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY

Octane advocates for non-profits’ self-sustainability while fulfilling their crucial missions, making the Non-Profit Accelerator pivotal in achieving long-term viability.

Thanks to the generous backing of the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation, a dedicated partner in our mission to provide essential resources to Southern California, we express our heartfelt appreciation for their ongoing support and forward-thinking guidance. Together, we’re cultivating enduring change and fortifying our community’s groundwork.

Pictured: Paul Symczak, LaunchPad SBDC at NPA Summit & Pitch Lab.

42

9 OC-based non-profit graduates since 2019

Spring 2023 Cohort

Cohort Graduates in 2023

Fall 2023 Cohort

“ “

Octane’s extensive nonprofit evaluation process identified our organization’s strengths, and the gap analysis also identified our weaknesses.

The program helped us identify the greatest opportunities for organizational investments and prioritize our capacity-building. The outcomes from the 360 evaluation made a strong case for staff growth, technology investments, outsourced financial management support, and organizational development.

YOLI ORIGEL CEO, Cancer Kinship

Being part of Octane’s Non-Profit Accelerator helped us take our vision for Step Forward Academy to the next level.

Our focus and pitch deck became stronger, affording us to present more effectively to potential partners and donors interested in helping us achieve our mission of providing a living wage through mentorship and coaching.

Thank you, Octane!

RYAN WONG Executive Director, Step Forward Academy

STEAM AHEAD

STEAM Ahead remains central to Octane’s dedication to fostering innovation and educational empowerment. Launched successfully last year, this initiative is guided by three key objectives:

NETWORKING ACCESS

60+

Organizations engaged in STEAM Ahead

STEAM Ahead broadens entry into the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem for underrepresented groups, expanding students’ connectivity to propel them towards entrepreneurial success.

INNOVATION ACCESS

In Orange County’s dynamic landscape, STEAM Ahead is vital for retaining young talent and fostering innovation essential for sustained growth, ensuring the county remains an innovation hub.

TALENT ACCESS

1 2 3

STEAM Ahead expands the talent pool for Orange County businesses through STEAM opportunities and internships, cultivating a pipeline of skilled individuals ready to contribute to the region’s growth.

Thanks to the generous funding from the Broadcom Foundation, Sun Family Foundation, OC Community College Business & Entrepreneurship, STEAM Ahead thrives. Their dedication to empowering and educating students aligns perfectly with Octane’s vision. We deeply appreciate their pivotal role in making STEAM Ahead a catalyst for positive change in Orange County.

Together, we’re shaping a future where innovation, education, and opportunity converge for our community’s benefit.

Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders Through Arts, Culture & Diversity

ATTRACTING AND RETAINING TALENT

At Octane, we believe in the power of Next Wave to cultivate and nurture the future leaders of Orange County. Through our commitment to leveraging the dynamic forces of arts, culture, and diversity, we are dedicated to not only attracting but also retaining top talent. By seamlessly integrating Next Wave into our signature events throughout the year, we catalyze a cultural shift that transcends generations, leaving a lasting imprint on the Orange County innovation landscape.

But our mission extends far beyond conventional leadership development.

Next Wave is a catalyst for community engagement and economic empowerment. By forging partnerships with local leaders and stakeholders, we drive tangible economic growth while simultaneously fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity within our community. Our aim is simple yet profound: to break down barriers, increase access, and ignite a cultural movement that unites diverse talent across generations.

Pictured: Maáza Martin, Senior Director, Marketing at Tarsus Pharmaceuticals, Inc., winner of the Next Wave Award at High Tech Awards.

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Octane's signature events are the epicenter of connection and collaboration within the Southern California business and entrepreneurial community.

Our premier events converge industry leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, physicians, and startups—all integral contributors to shaping the future. Looking ahead to 2024, the Octane Events team has secured key thought leaders as keynote speakers for all Signature Events.

Now, all our content is available on-demand, offering unparalleled convenience and solidifying Octane as a leading content provider. Join us as we continue to spark connections and pave the way for innovation in the year ahead.

In 2023, we shattered attendance records, bringing back our Cardiovascular Tech Summit and hosting over 7,500 participants across forums, summits, webinars, and more.

Aesthetics Tech Forum

Tech Innovation Forum + OC Innovation Week

Ophthalmology Tech Forum

High Tech Awards

Cardiovascular Tech Summit

Octane’s Medical Innovation Forum

total attendees

35.9K

minutes on event app

430+ event app connections made

The Aesthetics Tech Forum, our first Signature Event of 2023, continues to be a premier gathering for the medical aesthetics industry, convening physicians, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to discuss technological advancements and unmet clinical needs.

2.2k

Emceed by Dr. Kamakshi Zeidler, Founder of Aesthetx, the event featured over 60 speakers, including Dr. Stephanie Manson Brown, VP of Clinical Development at Allergan Aesthetics, David Moatazedi, President and CEO of Evolus, and other notable figures from academia, investment, and industry.

Sessions covered topics such as:

• MedSpa Evolution

• Unmet Innovations in Medical Aesthetics, Fireside Chat with Flemming Ørnskov, CEO of Galderma.

Attendees praised the event for its insightful discussions.

Additionally, our annual Octane Portfolio Company Presentations showcased six dynamic aesthetic companies: Lumisque, Yuva Biosciences, RealizeMD, StimuSIL, Spiderworts, and Syntr Health Technologies.

ACCORDING TO ONE ATTENDEE...

Octane always creates good events. The best part of these events is when there is a compelling speaker with a highly relatable and personal story they are telling - of how they identified a need, developed a solution, then a business.

Tech Innovation Forum

Partnering with the City of Irvine, Greater Irvine Chamber, Orange County Business Council, and UCI Beall Applied Innovation, the week showcased Orange County's thriving innovation ecosystem.

The kickoff at UCI Beall Applied Innovation featured 40 companies, most of which completed Octane's LaunchPad SBDC accelerator program, presenting to investors seeking series A funding.

Octane unveiled OC Innovation Week, anchored by the annual Tech Innovation Forum, a gathering of Southern California’s tech leaders.

“It is the start of something much larger. Over the next three years OC Innovation Week will attract a much broader audience outside of California and the US. As Irvine continues to grow, it has naturally become the hub of innovation and technology.

BILL CARPOU, CEO, OCTANE

The next two days, themed “Building the SoCal of Tomorrow”, featured exceptional content and interaction with Octane’s Tech Innovation Forum at AV Irvine where entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and professional services firms convened.

Attendees learned more about EV potential, what’s driving the latest transformations in industry and business, attracting talent to Orange County, the capacity of AI technologies, and the latest breakthroughs in tech innovation. A highlight of the Tech Innovation Forum included a fireside chat with Marc Bell, CEO of Terran Orbital.

total attendees

plan to attend in 2024

12.2K

94% 600+ engagements on event app

Ophthalmology Tech Forum annually brings together leading physicians, industry and investment in Southern California, a globally-recognized hub of ophthalmic innovation. The Forum inspires collaboration, discussion and innovation in the space, driving the overall industry forward.

We were thrilled to welcome our attendees back to the Balboa Bay Resort. The Forum featured a dynamic agenda, including a keynote from Mark Leahey, President & CEO of Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA).

Additional highlighted sessions included:

• Turning The Tide

• What Keeps You Up At Night

• Fireside Chat with Brent Saunders, Chairman & CEO, Bausch & Lomb

This year, our Octane Portfolio presenting companies were:

• Viewpoint Therapeutics

• OkuloVision

• Implandata Ophthalmic Products

• i-Lumen Scientific

• Pixium Vision

ACCORDING TO ONE ATTENDEE...

It was great to attend an event with such a strong focus on new device R&D and to hear from VC’s.

total attendees

97% 12.3K 500+ plan to attend OTF in 2024

engagements on event app

The High Tech Awards celebrates innovation & excellence in Orange County in both tech and medtech.

2023 was a record year for the Octane’s High Tech Awards with over 150 companies nominated in ten categories.

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of the 2023 High Tech Awards!

• Best Technology Company Menlo Micro

• Best Technology Company Leadership Team Sientra

• Best Enterprise or B2B Technology Innovation Enevate

• Best Consumer Technology Innovation Privi by PatientFi

• Best Emerging Technology Company Matregenix

• Best Technology Company CEO CloudVirga - Maria Moskver

• Best Clean Tech/Green Company Sapphire Technologies

• Best Large Disruptor/Innovator Terran Orbital

• Best Innovation in Medical Technology/Life Sciences Endologix

• Deal of the Year CathWorks

• Next Wave Award Tarsus PharmaceuticalsMaáza Martin

total attendees

4.9/5 overall rating 30

Octane proudly hosted the Cardiovascular Tech Forum for its second year, expanding our commitment to excellence into cardiology. This Forum serves as a beacon for the future of cardiovascular care, bringing together visionary physicians, industry leaders, and investors to pioneer advancements in patient well-being.

The Forum explored groundbreaking ideas, addressed unmet needs, and forged strategic partnerships shaping the future of cardiology. Highlights included Partnership Pursuit where physicians connected with early-stage companies, a keynote session with Todd Brinton, MD, Chief Scientific Officer of Edwards Lifesciences and Founder & Medical Director of Shockwave, and panels on Heart Failure Treatment, Global Heart Health, and First-in-Human Trials.

Octane Portfolio presenting companies pitched to investors, and the Innovation Award was presented to William E. Cohn, MD. The event featured an inspirational keynote from William and insights from Mike Musallem, former CEO of Edwards Lifesciences.

The day concluded with the Heart & Art Reception, co-hosted by Festival of Arts, featuring live entertainment, networking, and showcases of art and vendors on the Grand Lawn.

Medical Innovation Forum

Octane’s Medical Innovation Forum, held at Irvine Marriott, emphasized the collaborative power of startups, investors, physicians, IP experts, and patients. In today’s world, the opportunities for medical innovation are endless, and entrepreneurial intelligence is the catalyst for transformative change. This Forum served as the gateway to this journey, reshaping healthcare with cutting-edge AI and digital tools to make it more resilient, equitable, and personalized.

The Forum fostered global alliances and connections between visionary investors and medtech entrepreneurs, propelling innovation forward. It featured thought-provoking discussions, including a keynote from Dr. Harvey Castro on AI, panels on the payer/provider model, hospital innovations, raising capital, and more, addressing critical aspects of the innovation pathway.

Additionally, the Forum hosted an investor showcase of over 20 startup companies pitching their ideas. The event concluded with Octanefest, a vibrant networking reception, solidifying the value of the relationships established throughout the day.

total attendees

17.6k 20.3K 600+ event app engagements

total views on sponsor banners

Octane co-founded two venture funds to fill the capital shortfall.

VISIONARY VENTURES ELEVATION VENTURES

Visionary Ventures is a dynamic venture capital fund specializing in life sciences and the future of ophthalmology.

From early-stage Series A rounds in clinical trials to late-stage rounds in commercialization, the fund opportunistically invests at various stages of a company's growth, with a target investment range of $5M to $15M. Visionary Ventures’ unique approach centers around gathering crucial information for better investments and exceptional returns. The fund achieves this through strategic partnerships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), industry experts, and strategic acquirers. With a team of specialists and industry leaders, Visionary Ventures gains a distinct advantage in making informed decisions about venture investments.

Beyond financial returns, the fund focuses on funding companies that address unmet or underserved markets, contributing to larger societal impact. Visionary Ventures seeks innovative and proven entrepreneurs turning exciting ideas into market-leading businesses. This focused venture capital fund guides companies from series A to commercialization, providing targeted investments and strategic support.

Visionary Ventures is shaping the future of life sciences and ophthalmology.

Elevation Ventures grew out of a partnership between Sustain SoCal and Octane.

The fund focuses on Seed to Series A climate and sustainability companies, leveraging Octane’s LaunchPad accelerator and Sustain SoCal’s extensive network of energy and sustainability professionals to accelerate progress and amplify impact.

The partnership recognized that by leveraging each other’s respective strengths and capabilities it could have an immediate and meaningful impact on the climate crisis and economic growth in the region while providing attractive returns to the investors.

Founders’ access to capital in Southern California has been the single major impediment to climate tech growth in the region.

Elevation Ventures aims to change that.

Pictured: Jeffry Weinhuff, Managing Partner, Visionary Ventures speaking at Octane’s Medical Innovation Forum on the “Evolving Funding Environment”.

Fueling Innovation, Empowering Communities: Investing in the Octane Impact Fund

“

I’m fueled by the need to broaden the commitment I made to help my sister to the wider community who are suffering from pain and anxiety.

KAMRAN ANSARI CEO & CO-FOUNDER, FLUX WEAR, INC.

At Octane, we understand that every groundbreaking idea and successful venture is powered by individuals fueled by passion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to make a difference.

Let’s explore the stories of these passionate innovators and uncover what drives their journey towards positive change.

“

I‘m fueled by the opportunity to solve big problems at scale.

KIM KOVACS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ELEMENT6 DYNAMICS

“

I’m fueled by doing the right thing for the environment.

LNSP (NAGGS) NAGGHAPPAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, RENOVO RESOURCES

I’m fueled by my extreme passion for using technology to make a meaningful contribution to the fight against cancer.

MEHDI HATAMIAN, PHD CEO & CO-FOUNDER, 2PI-SIGMA

I‘m fueled by the desire to help people live better with our innovative ocular disease treatments.

JENNY WANG CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, JENIVISION INC.

I’m fueled by a passion to help people.

MARK CABATO, CFA CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER, IMMUNIS, INC

DONATE TO THE FUND

When you donate, this is what you’re fueling: not only are you empowering these innovators and passionate individuals to make a positive impact, but you’re also driving economic growth and high-paying job creation. Your contribution fosters groundbreaking innovations and transformative solutions that will change lives and communities for the better. Moreover, by supporting the Octane Impact Fund, you’re investing in a social return that will foster a diverse and inclusive innovation landscape and shape generations to come.

Support the Octane Impact Fund today. Join us to catalyze change, empower entrepreneurs, and uplift communities. Together, let’s build a brighter future.

DISCOVER THEIR STORIES.

octaneoc.org/octane-impact-fund

Thank you to our Octane Community - our Board, Advisors, Partners, Sponsors and you.

OCTANE FOUNDERS

Dwight Decker, Retired Chairman & CEO, Conexant Systems, Inc.

James Mazzo, Executive Chairman, Neurotech

Matthew Massengill, Chairman, Western Digital

Michael Mussallem, Chairman & Retired CEO, Edwards Lifesciences

Thomas Moebus, Founder & Principal, TenXGrow

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Bill Carpou, Octane

Jag Dosanjh, AbbVie

Bruce Feuchter, Stradling

Emile Haddad, FivePoint

Bruce Hallett, Miramar Venture Partners

Bob Jacobson, RSM US LLP

Jennifer Leuer, Providence Strategic Growth

James Mazzo, Neurotech

Carrie Strom, AbbVie, Allergan Aesthetics

Brett Wall, Medtronic

Scott Whitcup, Akrivista & Whitecap Biosciences

Clay Wilemon, 4L Data Intelligence

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Haleh Armian, Hoag

Laurent Attias, Alcon

Charles Black, J.P. Morgan Private Bank

Caitlin Blanche, K&L Gates

Sheryl Bourgeois, PhD, Saint John’s Health Center Foundation

Janelle Brunette, Octane

Akin Ceylan, Lionsgate Entertainment

Anthony Chang, MD, MBA, MPH, MS, CHOC

Hazem Chehabi, MD, Newport Diagnostic Center

Daveen Chopra, Edwards Lifesciences

Janet Clardy, Experian

Sean Crafts, BLDG

Dr. Henrik Cronqvist, Chapman University

Pete Deutschman, The Buddy Group

Linda DiMario, Octane

Randy Fisher, Insperity

Russ Garcia, Menlo Micro

Marinela Gombosev, SPARK Neuro

Rob Goodman, Pacific Life

Fauad Hasan, Appiell.ai

Michael Hedge, K&L Gates

Reza Jahangiri, Bloom Retirement Holdings (formerly American Advisors Group)

Lynn Jochim, Former FivePoint

Scott Joslyn, UCI Health

Edward Kim, MD, MBA, City of Hope

Jason Lantgen, JLL

Sabing Lee, Knobbe Martens

Wayne Markowitz, Edwards Lifesciences

Celine Martin, Johnson & Johnson

Goran Matijasevic, UC Irvine

Tatjana Mitchell, Experian North America

Thomas Mitro, Retired, Aerie Pharmaceuticals

David Moatazedi, Evolus

Aziz Mottiwala, Tarsus Pharmaceuticals

Aidan Raney, MD, FACC, Retired, Hoag

Ehsan Sadri, MD, FACS, Visionary Eye Institute

Neil Sahota, AI Advisor

Marc Schneider, Stradling

Dean Stoecker, Alteryx

Andrew Stewart, Bausch + Lomb

Ramin Valian, AbbVie

Jeffry Weinhuff, Visionary Venture Fund

Ian Williamson, UCI Paul Merage School of Business

Ted Wilm, Retired, PwC

Ashlie Woods, Goldman Sachs

Dominique Worthington, Medtronic

Kamakshi Zeidler, MD, FACS, Aesthetx

Annual Partners

Baker Tilly

Bank of America

Consulate General of Canada

Greater Irvine Chamber

ICON PLC

Alcon AbbVie

Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company

Edwards Lifesciences

Experian

FivePoint

Insperity

Knobbe Martens

K&L Gates

Lincoln Property Company

Medtronic

Visionary Venture Fund

DIAMOND PLATINUM

Bausch + Lomb

Chapman University

CHOC

City of Hope, Orange County

Deloitte

Hoag

Johnson & Johnson

JP Morgan Chase & Co.

Pacific Life

RSM US LLP

Stradling

UCI Beall Applied Innovation

JLL

Kofax

LDI Color Toolbox

Menlo Micro

MicroVention Terumo

PwC

Tangram Interiors

Tarsus Pharmaceuticals

TSX Venture Exchange

Wilson Sonsini

Smilefish

Stuart Kane LLP

GOLD SUPPORTING FOUNDATION PARTNERS

Bloom Retirement Holdings (formerly AAG)

Broadcom Foundation

Edwards Lifesciences Foundation

Pacific Life Foundation

Samueli Foundation

SBDC California, Orange County

Sun Family Foundation

Sunstone Management Inc.

US Small Business Administration

Vincit

Highlighted Event Sponsors

1315 Capital

2EyesVision

4L Data Intelligence

Ace Vision Group, Inc.

AdvaMed

Aesthetic Record

Aesthetics Biomedical, Inc.

Akin

Alliant Insurance Services

American Heart Association

Apellis Pharmaceuticals

Appiell.ai

Aurion Biotech

Beyond Blindness

Biosense Webster

BLDG

California Life Sciences

Cambridge Consultants, Ltd.

CathWorks

Ceders Aspens

Cobalt Robotics

Colorescience

Cooley LLP

Device Alliance

Elevai Labs Inc.

Establishment Labs

EVERSANA

Evolus

EvolveMKD

Eyenovia, Inc.

Galderma

Geneo

Glaukos

GLO

Greenlight Guru

Healio

Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

Howard Building Corporation

Hugel Aesthetics

Hydrafacial

Ingram Micro

inQB8 Medical Technologies

Investor Brand Network

iOR Partners

jCyte

Johnson & Johnson Vision

Kaiser Permanente

Kingsmen Digital Ventures

LENZ Therapeutics

Life Science Intelligence

Lumisque Skincare

Marcum LLP

Medical Device Manufacturers Association

MedTech Outlook

Mobix Labs

Modern Aesthetics

Neurotech

Nidus Biomedical

NUE Conceal

ocV!BE

Orange County Business Council

Orange County Regulatory Affairs

OnPoint Vision

Ophthalmic World Leaders

Orasis Pharmaceuticals

PatientFi

Perfect Corp.

Pixium Vision

Pretika Medtech

Promedica International

Renata Medical

ROTH MKM

RxSight

Savills

SCORR Marketing

SkinCeuticals

Skytale Group

Softeq STAAR Surgical

Starfish Medical

Strategic Information Group

STROMA Medical Corporation

Sun Ophthalmics

Syneos Health

Syprosoft

Teijin Pharma Ltd

The Innovation Institute

Trukera Medical

UCI Chief Executive Roundtable

UCI Gavin Herbert Eye Institute

VCI Events

WittKieffer

Women in Ophthalmology

ZEISS Vision Care

Zero Gravity Skin

Octane convenes a diverse innovation community, accelerating access to capital, resources & solutions, while providing high-value support to our partners and clients. octaneoc.org