California Captures 64% of US Venture Funding in 2025 Surge: Washington Gains Share Amid AI Boom

US venture funding skyrocketed 46% year-over-year in 2025, fueled primarily by investments in artificial intelligence technologies.

California dominated the landscape, securing a massive 64% share of total US venture dollars, the highest on record.

Rising States Amid National Boom

Only California and Washington among states with substantial venture activity increased their share of nationwide funding last year.

Washington saw gains from high-profile deals in nuclear power and reusable rocket technology.

Six states captured 2% or more of US funding, with all experiencing year-over-year dollar increases despite share shifts.

Falling Shares in Major Hubs

New York and Texas attracted more investment dollars but lost ground in market share to faster-growing peers.

Smaller states like Utah, Tennessee, Maryland, Ohio, Minnesota, Georgia, and New Jersey each pulled in over $1 billion, with most posting gains.

Key Deals Driving Regional Trends

North American venture investment swung dramatically upward, concentrating on AI-related companies across top hubs.

New York benefited from large rounds to prediction marketplaces and AI coding startups.

Historical Concentration and Future Impact

Venture capital has long clustered in a few hubs bolstered by universities and talent pools.

This ongoing concentration limits opportunities for startups outside major centers, intensifying competition.

Looking forward, AI and deep tech investments will likely reinforce dominance by established ecosystems unless new policies promote dispersion.