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The Research Institution GAP Fund and Accelerator Program Summit

UCSD Bioengineering Alumnus Launches Fund Focused On San Diego MedTech Startups

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October 16-17, 2025 / Seattle, WA

The annual summit for research institution gap fund and accelerator programs, including proof of concept programs, startup accelerators, and university venture funds

The Story

Garrett Smith, a University of California San Diego bioengineering PhD alumnus, has launched ReefHaven Ventures as founding managing partner, a San Diego-focused venture capital fund dedicated to early-stage medical technology startups with a focus on reinvesting in the local innovation ecosystem. Smith previously founded his first company as a doctoral student, stewarded technologies through FDA approval, led multiple startups to successful acquisition, directed early innovation partnerships for Johnson and Johnson Innovation, and oversaw a corporate venture capital fund for MedeonBIO.

Source: ReefHaven Ventures: UCSD Bioengineering Alumnus Garrett Smith Launches Fund Focused On San Diego MedTech Startups

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