The Impact Seat exists for startups whose value is best measured by their positive impact on the pet care ecosystem rather than commercial return.
Los Angeles-based Leap Venture Studio, the world’s first petcare startup accelerator, today announced the launch of its Cohort 11, accepting submissions until October 18, 2026.
In response to the unprecedented demand for Cohort 10, which drew over 300 applications from more than 40 countries, the program is returning to a Spring schedule, with Cohort 11 kicking off on March 30, 2027.
The 12-week hybrid accelerator program offers a tailored experience for each startup, providing access to resources, mentors, entrepreneurs-in-residence, networking opportunities, operational support, and brand and marketing services. Additionally, founders will also have access to a network of industry experts and investors from Mars Petcare, TAW Ventures, and Michelson Found Animals.
For its eleventh cohort, Leap Venture Studio will focus on funding startups that improve pet healthspan and wellness through science-backed solutions. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that are innovating in feline-first care, senior pets, dental health, and allergy-focused solutions.
“Every cohort of Leap Venture Studio has raised the bar, and we can’t wait to see what this next group of founders brings. We’re especially looking for startups using science-backed approaches to extend pet healthspan and improve quality of life,” said Rachel Sheppard, director of ventures at Mars Petcare, the parent company of brands including Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canin and part of Mars, Incorporated.
Jane Lauder, founder and managing director of TAW Ventures, added that while creating a great product is an important first step, “building an enduring brand requires a broader vision.”
“We’re excited by founders who are developing products that deliver demonstrable value for pets, while also thinking thoughtfully about how to build consumer trust, create meaningful differentiation and establish the kind of relevance that can sustain a brand over time.”
For 2026, the pet-tech market is worth $14.17 billion USD globally, and projected to reach $44.71 billion USD by 2035, at a compound annual growth rate of 13.62%, according to SNS Insider. The sector thus represents one of the most commercially compelling intersections with the pet care economy, combining the increasing emotional bond between owners and pets with technological advancement.
Regardless, the sector has lost some of its momentum from pandemic-era highs because of rising affordability concerns: it is expected to slow about 4% through 2030, per Morgan Stanley. However, a September 2025 survey found owners are increasingly paying close attention to age-related health challenges.
By 2034, in fact, pet longevity solutions are expected to reach a $9.6 billion USD valuation, compared with today’s $5 billion.
“A smart world for pets looks like one that doesn’t require families to choose between the care their animal needs and what they can actually afford. We’re committing to scaling that kind of impact and look forward to meeting the founders bringing it to life,” said Phillip Kim, executive director at Michelson Philanthropies.
With the launch of applications for Cohort 11, Leap Venture Studio also announced one Impact Seat will be reserved for a company that is best measured by their positive impact on the pet care ecosystem rather than solely on their commercial return.
Prior Impact Seat participants include myBalto Foundation, which builds personalized Angel Funds to help veterinary hospitals raise money for those in need, BestyBnB, a crisis housing and safety net platform, and Petcademy, which offers text message-based training and behavioral support for new adopters and fosters.
Interested startups are encouraged to apply here for the Impact Seat.
All pet-care focused startups interested in Cohort 11 are welcome to apply here for the Spring 2027 edition.
Featured image: Courtesy of Leap Venture Studio
Disclosure: This article mentions a client of an Espacio portfolio company.
