What happened
Holly Ventures launched a $33 million cybersecurity fund designed to support early-stage security startups with both capital and hands-on access to operators, customers, and go-to-market expertise.
Who is affected
Cybersecurity founders, early-stage security vendors, and enterprise security teams that may benefit from tools shaped more closely around real-world CISO needs.
Why CISOs should care
This approach reflects a growing shift toward operator-led investment in cybersecurity. Startups backed by this model often prioritize practical security outcomes, faster product development, and closer collaboration with enterprise security leaders.
3 practical actions
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Monitor new vendors emerging from the Holly Ventures portfolio for early signals of market-relevant innovation.
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Engage with early-stage security startups to influence product direction and feature priorities.
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Track investment trends to anticipate where security tooling and budgets may shift next.