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CyLon was founded in 2015 by Grace Cassy, Jonathan Luff, and Alex van Someren in Witney, Oxfordshire, UK. The firm initially operated as a global accelerator for cybersecurity startups, but in 2020, it pivoted to focus exclusively on investing in a select number of high-quality startups. This shift allows CyLon to leverage its own capital, ensuring a founder-aligned approach to investment.
Currently, CyLon manages a portfolio of 83 companies, emphasizing early-stage investments in the cybersecurity sector. The firm has a strong track record, with its accelerator-era portfolio collectively valued at over £1 billion. CyLon's team consists of industry veterans and former national security insiders, providing a wealth of experience and connections to its portfolio companies.
CyLon operates from its office in Witney and has expanded its investment reach to include startups in the UK, US, and Israel. The firm is committed to supporting innovative technologies that enhance security and resilience across various sectors.
CyLon invests in early-stage startups primarily within the cybersecurity sector, which encompasses a broad range of technologies including cyber skills training, identity management, and threat intelligence. The firm focuses on companies that are developing innovative security technologies, particularly those that enhance resilience in the face of evolving threats.
Investment stages include Seed, Seed+ (Extension), and Series A, with check sizes tailored to the needs of the startups. CyLon's geographic focus is on Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, but it also invests in promising companies in the US and Israel. The firm emphasizes a founder-aligned investment strategy, using its own capital to support startups at critical phases of development.
CyLon believes that security is a foundational element for future innovations, impacting sectors such as autonomous driving, digital healthcare, and smart energy systems. This perspective shapes their investment thesis and guides their selection of portfolio companies.
CyLon's portfolio includes a diverse array of companies that are making significant strides in the cybersecurity sector. Notable companies include:
These companies represent CyLon's commitment to investing in high-quality startups that are addressing critical challenges in cybersecurity and resilience.
Grace Cassy: Co-founder, Investing. Grace has over 30 years of experience in national security policy, technology, and investment. She previously served in the UK Diplomatic Service and was an advisor to Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Jonathan Luff: Co-founder, Investing. Jonathan also has a background in the UK Diplomatic Service and was an advisor to Prime Minister David Cameron. He co-founded Epsilon Advisory Partners.
Alex van Someren: Co-founder, Investing. Alex was the UK Government's Chief Scientific Advisor for National Security and co-founded nCipher, which led to a £350 million IPO. He was also a Managing Partner at Amadeus Capital Partners.
Ciaran Martin: Former CEO, National Cyber Security Centre. Ciaran brings extensive experience in cybersecurity leadership.
Sir Anthony Finkelstein: Former Chief Scientific Advisor for National Security, HM Government. He has a strong background in scientific research and national security.
Deneen DeFiore: CISO, United Airlines. Deneen has significant experience in cybersecurity within the aviation sector.
Christopher Ahlberg: Co-founder and CEO of Recorded Future. Christopher has a strong background in cybersecurity analytics.
Yuval Diskin: Ex-Director of Israeli Internal Security Service. Yuval brings a wealth of experience in security operations.
Adam Fletcher: CISO, The Blackstone Group. Adam has extensive experience in corporate cybersecurity.
Maria Lewis Kussmaul: Co-Founder of AGC Partners. Maria has a strong background in investment and technology.
Jim Rutt: CISO, Dana Foundation. Jim has significant experience in cybersecurity leadership.
Matt Comyns: Managing Partner of Caldwell. Matt has a strong background in investment management.
Min-Liang Tan: Co-Founder & CEO of Razer. Min has extensive experience in technology and entrepreneurship.
To pitch to CyLon, founders should use the online submission form available at cylonventures.com/startups. It is important to include a detailed deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and technology. CyLon prefers warm introductions but will consider direct submissions.
Response times can vary, but founders can generally expect feedback within a few weeks. Clear communication and a well-structured pitch are essential for capturing CyLon's interest.
In 2023, CyLon Ventures continued to expand its portfolio, focusing on early-stage investments in cybersecurity startups. The firm has made several notable investments, including backing companies that enhance security in digital healthcare and smart energy systems.
CyLon's accelerator-era portfolio, which includes companies like Immersive Labs and Tessian, has collectively reached a valuation of over £1 billion. This milestone underscores the firm's successful track record in identifying and supporting high-potential startups.
In addition to its investment activities, CyLon has been actively engaging with industry experts and participating in cybersecurity conferences to share insights and trends in the sector.
What are CyLon's investment criteria?
CyLon focuses on early-stage startups in the cybersecurity sector, particularly those developing innovative technologies related to cyber skills training, identity management, and threat intelligence. They invest in Seed, Seed+, and Series A stages.
How can I pitch to CyLon?
Founders can pitch their startups by visiting the CyLon website and submitting their information through the provided pitch URL: cylonventures.com/startups. It is recommended to include a clear business model and the problem your startup addresses.
What makes CyLon different from other investors?
CyLon operates without a traditional LP/GP structure, using its own capital to invest. This allows for a more founder-aligned approach, providing strategic guidance and access to a network of industry experts.
What is CyLon's geographic scope?
While CyLon is based in the UK, it invests in startups across Europe, the US, and Israel, focusing on high-quality cybersecurity companies.
What kind of support does CyLon provide post-investment?
CyLon adds value to its portfolio companies by leveraging its extensive network of industry experts and former national security insiders. They provide strategic guidance, access to potential customers, and insights into market trends.
What is the typical check size for investments?
CyLon's check sizes vary depending on the stage of the startup and its specific needs, but they focus on early-stage investments that align with their strategic goals.
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