DataTribe, a Fulton, Md.-based global cyber foundry that invests in and co-builds next-generation cybersecurity and data science companies, opened its call for applications for the 2023 Cybersecurity Startup Challenge.
The deadline for submissions is September 23rd.
The competition identifies pre-series A, technology startups with a vision to disrupt cybersecurity and data science. Three finalists will split $20,000 in prize money, and one winner will be eligible to receive up to $2 million in seed capital from DataTribe.
Over the past five years, DataTribe has made seed investments in six Challenge winners. Last year’s winner, BalanceTheory, secured a $3 million funding round in December 2022. Code Dx, the 2019 Challenge winner, was acquired by Synopsys in 2021.
Led by John Funge, managing director, and Mike Janke, Co-founder, DataTribe invites contestants who have developed a concept and/or have initiated the development of a minimum viable product. The Challenge receives applications from founders with a wide range of cybersecurity backgrounds including from national security, defense, national laboratories, organizations specializing in cybersecurity and data science R&D as well as commercial firms.
DataTribe will review submissions for technical merit, market potential, and team readiness. On October 12, 2023, DataTribe will announce up to three finalists. These teams will then have two weeks to refine their pitch and prepare for final judging, with assistance from DataTribe’s team of startup veterans. In a live event, finalists will present a pitch and answer questions from judges on November 2, 2023.
To apply for the 2023 DataTribe Challenge, visit https://datatribe.com/challenge.
