Boston startups and venture capitals.

This year has surprised risk capital, turning a hot early start to 2020 into an ice age permeated with fear during the first days of COVID-19. That ice quickly melted as venture capitalists discovered that demand for software and other services that startups provide was accelerating, pushing many young tech companies back to growth mode, and investors back into the check-writing arena.

Boston has been an exemplar of the trend, with early pandemic caution dissolving into rapid-fire dealmaking as summer rolled into fall.

We collated new data that underscore the trend, showing that Boston’s third-quarter looks very solid compared to its peer groups, and leads greater New England’s share of American venture capital higher during the three months.

For our October check out Boston and its startup scene, let’s get into the info then understand how a replacement cohort of founders is cropping up among the city’s educational network.

A strong Q3, a strong 2020

Boston’s third quarter was strong, effectively matching the capital raised in NY City during the three months. As we head into the fourth quarter, it appears that the silver in American startup ecosystems is up for grabs supported by what happens in Q4.

Boston could start in 2021 because of the number-two place to boost risk capital within the country. Or NY City could pip it at the finishing line. Let’s check the numbers.

According to PitchBook data shared with TechCrunch, the metro Boston area raised $4.34 billion in risk capital during the third quarter. New York City and its metro area managed $4.45 billion during the same period, an effective tie. Los Angeles and its metro area managed just $3.90 billion.

In 2020 the numbers tilt in Boston’s favor, with the city and surrounding area collecting $12.83 billion in venture capital. New York City came in second through Q3, with $12.30 billion in risk capital. Los Angeles was a foreign third at $8.66 billion for the year through Q3.