Developers are facing a new challenge in today’s digital landscape. While in the past, only large enterprises had to prioritize security, now even startups are handling vast amounts of customer data. This shift means developers at all levels must ensure their platforms are secure, often struggling with complex security tools.
Enter Aikido, a small but innovative startup based in Ghent, Belgium. Aikido believes it has a solution to this dilemma: a straightforward, open-source security platform designed specifically for developers. Recently, the startup secured a $17 million Series A funding round to enhance its product.
Willem Delbare, Aikido’s founder and CTO, explained, “Traditionally, security tools were purchased by CSOs, leaving developers as the end-users. Aikido changes this dynamic by focusing on the developer as the buyer. We offer a ‘no BS’ platform.”
Aikido distinguishes itself from competitors like Snyk, JIT, Endor Labs, Guardrails, Mend, Qwiet, Oxeye, Arnica, Ox, and Apiiro by providing a freemium model, actively open-sourcing new products, delivering all-in-one security, simple pricing, and minimizing unnecessary notifications to developers.
With over 3,000 small-to-midsize customers already on board, Aikido’s rapid growth is evident. This recent funding, led by European firm Singular, follows a successful $5 million seed round earlier this year, bringing the total raised to $22.5 million.
One notable aspect of Aikido’s story is its location in Ghent, Belgium, challenging the dominance of Israeli and U.S. security incumbents in the industry. Delbare highlighted Aikido’s unique approach, avoiding the typical acquisition-driven playbook followed by many U.S. and Israeli security startups.
Delbare emphasized Aikido’s focus on user-friendly solutions, contrasting the overly complex interfaces of traditional security tools. Aikido aims to empower developers to quickly address security issues and focus on developing innovative features.
The choice to partner with Singular was a strategic one, as the firm’s understanding of their product resonated with Aikido’s vision. Co-founders Roeland Delrue, Felix Garriau, and the recent addition of Madeline Lawrence as Chief Brand Officer underline Aikido’s commitment to innovation and growth.
Notion Capital and Connect Ventures, who co-led the previous seed round, also participated in this latest funding round. Aikido is positioned to capitalize on a growing network security software market, which is projected to reach $27.33 billion by 2024, as security risks continue to evolve and intensify.
