Leap Venture Studio, the pet care accelerator run in partnership by Mars Petcare, TAW Ventures, and Michelson Found Animals, announced today it is receiving applications for its eleventh Studio program 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 March 30, 2027.
For Cohort 11, Leap Venture Studio’s focus will be on funding startups that improve pet healthspan and wellness through science-backed solutions. Of particular interest are 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
“Creating a great product is an important first step, but 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,” added TAW Ventures founder and managing director Jane Lauder.
A separate Impact Seat, open to both non-profits and for-profits, is reserved for a company judged on its impact on the pet care ecosystem. Past participants include myBalto Foundation, which builds personalized Angel Funds to help veterinary hospitals raise funds for those in need who can’t afford care, BestyBnB, a crisis housing and safety net platform, and Petcademy, which offers text message-based training and behavioral support for new adopters and fosters.
According to the European Pet Food Industry Federation’s (FEDIAF) latest report, published in June 2026, 140 million European households, 49% of all households, own at least one of Europe’s 306 million pets. Meanwhile, the global pet care market is projected to reach nearly $225 billion USD (€194.7 billion), with Europe representing just under a third of the total.
When benchmarking against global data, Euromonitor International found two interesting European exceptions in its most recent data: cats, not dogs, are the most popular pets, and markets in the region are shifting to preventative pet healthcare, as the trends defines the sector this year – along with premiumization and retail channel shifts.
More broadly, by 2034, 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,” concluded Phillip Kim, executive director at Michelson Philanthropies.
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.