Abel Rodriguez

Updated on August 19, 2026

Irvine has evolved into a formidable tech hub, with startups spanning AI, cybersecurity, fintech, gaming and aerospace driving innovation and expanding Southern California’s footprint in the broader technology economy.

In the business world, it’s fairly easy to recognize success. High year-over-year growth, robust customer retention rates and low costs for customer acquisition all point to a company going in the right direction. But when it comes to status symbol, nothing indicates the presence of a giant quite like a big valuation.

With 2017 winding down, it’s safe to say that this year blew last year out of the water. Where 2016 saw 231 companies receiving funding, more than 350 local companies did so in 2017, adding nearly $7 billion into the local tech ecosystem since January 1. Here are the top rounds of funding from 2017.

With cybercrime on the rise around the globe, Los Angeles finds itself home to a number of startups dedicated to fighting those who are using the internet for nefarious activities around the world.