By Crystal Woody, Managing Director
As a communications agency deeply rooted in cybersecurity, Actual Agency offers a unique perspective on the rapid evolution of threats and defenses. We've seen AI evolve from a buzzword to a critical defense tool and cloud security shift from an afterthought to a business imperative.
In celebration of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we're showcasing a select group of trailblazers shaping cybersecurity's future. These companies represent the vanguard of innovation, each bringing a unique approach to complex security challenges. Their innovations are not just groundbreaking, but they are also reshaping the cybersecurity landscape – from AI-driven threat detection to cloud security, industrial system protection, and developer-focused tools.
These innovators share a proactive, forward-thinking approach essential in today's threat landscape. They're not just building better firewalls but reimagining security for an interconnected, AI-driven world. Let's meet the innovators redefining cybersecurity in 2024:
Abnormal Security: AI-Driven Email Protection
Founded in 2018, Abnormal Security is revolutionizing email security with advanced AI and machine learning. Their behavioral AI models analyze communication patterns to detect anomalies and thwart sophisticated email attacks, mainly effective against business email compromise and account takeover attempts. In August 2024, Abnormal Security secured $250 million in funding, reaching a $5.1 billion valuation. With over $200 million in annualized revenue and serving about 17% of the Fortune 500, they're expanding rapidly planning to fill 300 new positions in 2024.
Wiz: Cloud Security Trailblazer
Wiz, founded in 2020, has quickly become a leader in cloud security. Their comprehensive platform provides visibility across multi-cloud environments using an innovative graph-based approach. In 2024, Wiz made headlines by reportedly turning down a $23 billion acquisition offer from Google, instead aiming for $1 billion in annual recurring revenue and an IPO. Serving 40% of Fortune 100 companies, Wiz achieved $350 million in revenue in 2023, more than tripling their 2022 figures.
Snyk: Empowering Developers with Security Tools
Founded in 2015, Snyk pioneered developer-focused security, enabling teams to find and fix vulnerabilities in code, containers, and infrastructure as code. Their cloud-native application security platform integrates directly into development workflows. In August 2024, Snyk ranked #27 on the Forbes Cloud 100 list. They recently partnered with Snowflake, launched Snyk AppRisk Pro for enhanced vulnerability remediation, and acquired Helios to improve cloud-to-code visibility.
Privacera: AI and Data Security Governance
Founded in 2016 by the creators of Apache Ranger™, Privacera provides a unified platform for data privacy, security, and governance across cloud services. They developed Privacera AI Governance (PAIG), the industry's first comprehensive AI data security governance solution, and in September 2024, they open-sourced PAIG, introducing a framework for responsible Generative AI development. Earlier in 2024, Privacera was named a leader in 2024 GigaOm Radar for Data Access Governance. They were also named winners in the 2024 Cloud Security Awards program's Best in Information Security category. (*Privacera is an Actual client)
Huntress: Managed Detection and Response for SMBs
Launched in 2015, Huntress focuses on protecting small and medium-sized businesses through managed threat detection and response services. In September 2024, they reached $100 million in annual recurring revenue and maintained their #1 rank in Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) for SMBs for the 10th consecutive quarter. Huntress serves over 25,000 organizations and 3,000 partners.
Orca Security: Illuminating Cloud Vulnerabilities
Orca Security, founded in 2019, offers agentless cloud security through its innovative "SideScanning" technology. In August 2024, Orca expanded its Cloud Detection and Response capabilities with new threat investigation and response features. Their State of Cloud Security Report in February 2024 revealed critical insights into neglected cloud assets. In June, Orca was named to the Redpoint 2024 InfraRed 100, recognizing its position as a top private company in Cloud Infrastructure.
Axonius: Revolutionizing Asset Management
Axonius, established in 2017, offers a comprehensive IT asset inventory platform that correlates data from hundreds of security and management solutions. In March 2024, they secured $200 million in funding and crossed the $100 million ARR milestone. Their launch of version 6.0, featuring a vulnerability management module and asset graph capability, solidified their position as a Strong Performer in The Forrester Wave™: SaaS Security Posture Management.
Claroty: Securing Industrial Systems
Founded in 2014, Claroty specializes in securing operational technology (OT), the Internet of Things (IoT), and industrial IoT environments. In March 2024, they secured $100 million in strategic growth financing and surpassed $100 million in annual recurring revenue. They plan to scale the protection of their cyber-physical systems across key verticals. Their recent acquisition of Medigate expanded their healthcare IoT security capabilities.
Hypori: Secure BYOD Solutions
Hypori, founded in 2011, provides a SaaS solution for secure bring-your-own-device (BYOD) capabilities. In September 2024, they achieved the FedRAMP "In Process" designation at a high impact level, and their Halo solution won the 2024 Cybersecurity Excellence Award in the BYOD category.
Immersive Labs: Cybersecurity Readiness Platform
Since 2017, Immersive Labs has offered organizations training and tools to prepare for real-life cyber threat scenarios. In September 2024, they launched "Human Connection," an online community providing resources and insights from cybersecurity experts.
Aqua Security: Cloud Native Application Protection
Aqua Security, founded in 2015, provides comprehensive protection for cloud-native applications throughout their lifecycle. In 2024, they were named a Representative Vendor in Gartner's Market Guide for Cloud-Native Application Protection Platforms, secured $60M in additional funding, and reported significant channel growth.
Valence Security: SaaS Security Posture Management
Founded in 2021, Valence Security helps organizations manage SaaS-to-SaaS access risks and misconfigurations. In August 2024, they were named a "Leader" and "Fast Mover" in GigaOm's first annual report for SaaS Security Posture Management, reflecting the growing importance of SaaS security in the industry.
Kiteworks: Secure Content Communications Leader
Kiteworks, established in 2010 and formerly known as Accellion, provides a unified platform for secure content communications. In August 2024, they secured a $456 million growth equity investment, valuing the company at over $1 billion. Their acquisition of 123FormBuilder in September further expanded their secure content communication capabilities.
As we reflect on these innovations during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it's clear that the industry is evolving rapidly to meet new challenges. From AI-driven threat detection to cloud-native security solutions, these companies are at the forefront of developing proactive measures to safeguard our digital future. Their diverse approaches underscore the multifaceted nature of modern cybersecurity challenges and the innovative solutions required to address them.
As an agency that focuses on B2B Technology, the team at Actual Agency is ready to help you deliver media coverage, thought leadership and market-leading commentary about the impact of technology on business transformation. If you are looking for a B2B Tech PR agency that delivers results, contact the Actual Agency team today!
