San Diego is a vibrant city for startups, particularly in the biotechnology, healthcare and technology sectors. One of the leading factors is the presence of many quality research institutions, like the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and the Scripps Research Institute which fuels the biotech and healthcare startups scene.

Companies such as Illumina, worth $47 billion, back their roots to San Diego. Illumina, a biotech company, revolutionized DNA sequencing and its headquarters are still based in San Diego.

Another successful startup with San Diego roots is Qualcomm. Its founder, Irwin Jacobs, continues to be a significant figure in the local scene through his philanthropic activities and investments. Qualcomm, a mobile technology company, was founded in San Diego in 1985 and has grown into a multinational semiconductor and telecommunications equipment corporation.

In addition to these established companies, San Diego has a thriving venture capital ecosystem. With companies like Section 32, a venture capital firm founded by Bill Maris, who is originally from San Diego and was the founder of Google Ventures, is contributing significantly to the city’s VC landscape. Their main purpose is to invest in biotech, healthcare and technology startups that aren't in traditional tech hubs.

A local initiative of note is EvoNexus, a technology incubator in San Diego. This non-profit organization has helped numerous San Diego startups grow and raise funds. They provide mentoring, office space, and strategic start-up assistance to emerging companies for a period of two years without taking any equity.

San Diego, through its mix of startups, venture capitalists, incubators, and academic institutions, is making its mark on the global map as a growing startup hub. The city's blend of sunshine, innovation, and investment makes it a prime location for entrepreneurs and investors.