Global venture funding reached $42 billion in August 2026, marking a 122% year-over-year increase. Seven companies secured rounds exceeding $1 billion during the month.
Y Combinator remained the most active investor in U.S. startups by deal count, participating in at least 18 rounds of $5 million or more. In the seed category, the accelerator backed at least 12 U.S.-based companies.
Nvidia significantly increased its investment activity, participating in nine disclosed rounds of at least $5 million in August. This represents the company's busiest month since early 2025. In 2026, Nvidia has already participated in 59 funding rounds, surpassing its total of 53 investments for the entire year of 2025.
General Catalyst led or co-led the highest number of rounds of $5 million or more, totaling five deals. Its portfolio included a $1.1 billion Series A for River AI and a $116 million Series E for Cityblock Health.
Coatue emerged as the lead investor with the highest aggregate deal value, driven by its role in the $5 billion financing for Databricks, which valued the company at $190 billion. JPMorgan Chase and Valor Equity Partners also led rounds totaling $2.37 billion each.
