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Cal-X Stars

Leonhardt’s Launchpads Operated by Cal-X Stars Business Accelerator, Inc. is a 5 year innovation and startup accelerator focused on… 1. Regenerative Medtech. 2. Regenerative Economy.

Irvine, CA, USA

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Description

Cal-X Stars (officially Cal-X Stars Business Accelerator, Inc.) is an Irvine-based innovation factory and accelerator that specializes in two primary sectors: organ regeneration (biomedical/cardiovascular) and social good impact. It is the primary vehicle for launching inventions from Leonhardt Ventures LLC and also accepts external startups. 
  • Seed and Pre-Seed: The accelerator is designed for early-stage innovations, specifically those moving from lab research through "first-in-human" clinical studies.
  • Expansion Stages: Through its 5-year intensive program, it continues to support startups through follow-on funding rounds as they scale toward commercialization or acquisition.
  • Percentage Equity: In exchange for mentorship and services, the accelerator receives a 9% seed-stage ownership interest (anti-dilutive).
  • Pre-emptive Rights: Cal-X Stars maintains the right to purchase additional equity up to a 20% total ownership stake right up to the company's exit or graduation.
  • Investment Amount: While direct cash amounts vary by deal, participants gain access to "millions in in-kind support" and the primary backing of Leonhardt Ventures, which has historically deployed over $145 million across its portfolio.
  • 108-Day Bootcamp: A rapid launch program called "Create to Great in 108" through its subsidiary, Cal-Xelerator.
  • 5-Year Accelerator: An intensive long-term partnership where Cal-X Stars acts as a "working co-founder," assisting in product design, management, and fundraising.

Eligibility

  • Sectors: HealthTech/Life Sciences (specifically cardiovascular, brain, and major organ regeneration) and Social Good Impact (companies targeting the California Stock Exchange).
  • Core Technology: Preference is given to startups that can leverage the Leonhardt Ventures core intellectual property in bioelectrics and biologics. 



Process

What an Applicant can Obtain

  1. Direct Capital: Access to immediate funding, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 for early-stage equity checks, or non-dilutive grants of up to $250,000 for specialized research and health security programs.
  2. Strategic Mentorship: Dedicated 1-on-1 coaching from "Founders in Remission" and industry veterans who provide tactical guidance on scaling, product-market fit, and navigating complex regulatory hurdles like FDA or SEC approval.
  3. Operational Resources: Extensive "perks" packages often exceeding $100,000 in credits for AWS, Google Cloud, and legal services, alongside physical infrastructure such as wet labs, co-working spaces, or focused "founder outposts."
  4. Network Access: Warm introductions to a global ecosystem of corporate partners for pilot programs, as well as a high-visibility platform at Demo Days to pitch hundreds of vetted venture capitalists and angel investors simultaneously.