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Ballistic Ventures is a venture capital firm founded to exclusively fund and incubate innovations in cybersecurity. Established in 2021, the firm aims to address the complexities faced by cybersecurity entrepreneurs by providing essential support beyond just capital. The firm has successfully raised a total of $360 million across its second fund, which was announced in March 2024, following an initial fund of $300 million.
Headquartered in the United States, Ballistic Ventures operates globally, focusing on early-stage investments in cybersecurity. The firm has a portfolio of 20 companies, showcasing its commitment to nurturing startups that tackle pressing security challenges. The team consists of experienced professionals with backgrounds in founding, funding, and operating major security companies, enhancing their ability to support portfolio companies effectively.
Ballistic Ventures has established itself as a key player in the cybersecurity investment space, emphasizing operational support and leveraging a vast network of industry connections. Their notable milestones include backing companies that have achieved significant exits, such as Talon Cyber Security and Veza, further solidifying their reputation in the market.
Ballistic Ventures invests in early-stage cybersecurity companies, specifically targeting sectors such as application security, identity management, incident response, and cloud security. The firm emphasizes innovative solutions that address critical security challenges, particularly for mid-sized businesses and organizations that may lack dedicated security teams. Their investment strategy is designed to support companies that are redefining how security is delivered in the digital landscape.
The firm seeks to back and incubate entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of cybersecurity, particularly in areas like AI security and incident response. Ballistic Ventures provides operator-heavy support, ensuring that portfolio companies receive not only capital but also the guidance and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of the cybersecurity environment. This approach allows them to foster innovation and drive growth in the cybersecurity sector.
Ballistic Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 20 companies, each focused on addressing various aspects of cybersecurity. Notable portfolio companies include:
Additionally, the firm has achieved notable exits with companies like Talon Cyber Security, acquired by Palo Alto Networks, and Veza, acquired by ServiceNow. These successes highlight Ballistic Ventures' ability to identify and support high-potential cybersecurity startups.
Kevin Mandia, General Partner: Kevin is a founding partner at Ballistic Ventures and has a strong background in cybersecurity, having previously been associated with Mandiant. His expertise lies in operational security and strategic investments in the cybersecurity sector.
Barmak Meftah, General Partner: Barmak is also a founding partner and has a background in cybersecurity operations, previously associated with AlienVault and AT&T Cybersecurity. He brings extensive experience in identifying and supporting innovative security solutions.
Ted Schlein, General Partner: Ted is a long-time cybersecurity investor with a notable background at Kleiner Perkins. His focus is on identifying high-potential cybersecurity startups and providing them with the necessary resources to succeed.
Jake Seid, General Partner: Jake is a founding partner with a focus on cybersecurity investments. His experience as an investor and operator in the cybersecurity space enhances the firm's ability to support portfolio companies.
Roger Thornton, General Partner: Roger has a strong operational background in cybersecurity, previously associated with Fortify and AlienVault. His expertise contributes to the firm's hands-on support model for portfolio companies.
Nicole Perlroth, Venture Partner: Nicole is a cybersecurity journalist and advisor, bringing a unique perspective to the firm. Her insights into industry trends and challenges help guide investment decisions.
Phil Venables, Venture Partner: Phil is a cybersecurity executive and advisor, providing strategic insights and connections within the industry. His experience enhances the firm's ability to support innovative cybersecurity startups.
To pitch Ballistic Ventures, founders should visit their website at ballisticventures.com and reach out via email at info@ballisticventures.com. It is recommended to include a concise overview of the startup, the problem it addresses, and the team’s qualifications in the pitch deck. While specific response times are not disclosed, founders can expect timely communication regarding their submissions.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the chances of securing a meeting with the investment team. Founders should ensure that their pitch clearly outlines the innovative aspects of their cybersecurity solution and its potential impact on the market.
Ballistic Ventures has launched the **Ballistic X Pursuit Cyber Fellows program**, which aims to address the cybersecurity skills gap by providing training and support to individuals from non-traditional backgrounds. This initiative collaborates with corporate partners to employ fellows in cybersecurity roles, enhancing diversity and inclusion within the industry.
In March 2024, Ballistic Ventures announced the closing of its $360 million oversubscribed Fund II, aimed at fueling the next generation of cybersecurity innovation. This fund follows their inaugural $300 million fund and reflects the firm's commitment to supporting early-stage cybersecurity companies.
In 2026, Ballistic Ventures published insights on the intersection of AI and security, featuring a notable blog post by Phil Venables discussing lessons learned in 2025 and future predictions. This demonstrates the firm's active engagement with current trends and thought leadership in the cybersecurity domain.
Upcoming events include the **CISO Summit 2026**, scheduled for March 11-13, 2026, at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C., and a webinar titled **ShiftNow: AI Next Steps and Big Leaps**, discussing the impact of AI on application security, held on October 31, 2025.
What are Ballistic Ventures' investment criteria?
Ballistic Ventures focuses on early-stage cybersecurity companies, particularly those innovating in application security, identity management, incident response, and cloud security. They look for startups that address critical security challenges and provide solutions for mid-sized businesses.
How can I pitch to Ballistic Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Ballistic Ventures by visiting their website at ballisticventures.com. They encourage direct communication through their email at info@ballisticventures.com for inquiries and pitch submissions.
What makes Ballistic Ventures different from other VCs?
Ballistic Ventures distinguishes itself by providing operator-heavy support alongside capital investment. Their team consists of industry veterans who have founded and operated major security companies, offering invaluable insights and connections to portfolio companies.
What is the geographic focus of Ballistic Ventures?
The firm operates globally, investing in cybersecurity startups from various regions, with a strong emphasis on the United States.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Ballistic Ventures invests in early-stage rounds, including pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A funding.
What kind of post-investment support does Ballistic Ventures provide?
Ballistic Ventures offers hands-on support from experienced partners, access to a vast network of industry connections, and guidance to help portfolio companies navigate the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape.
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