Forgepoint Capital expands globally to invest in next generation cybersecurity and artificial intelligence companies with the support of Banco Santander

San Mateo, CA and London, UK – 22 October 2024 – PRESS RELEASE

Forgepoint Capital (“Forgepoint”), a leading cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and infrastructure software venture capital firm that backs entrepreneurs protecting the digital future, is pleased to announce its strategic expansion into Europe, Latin America, and Israel.

With a track record of investing in some of the most successful cybersecurity companies in Europe, including AlienVault (acq. AT&T), Constella Intelligence, BehavioSec (acq. LexisNexis® Risk Solutions (RELX)), Lynx Technologies, and ReversingLabs, the firm is now establishing a dedicated management company (“Forgepoint Capital International”), team and European hub in London to invest in transformative companies in select ecosystems around the world.

The creation of the new management company is a key component of the strategic alliance between Forgepoint and Banco Santander to advance investment and innovation in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence globally as the bank accelerates digital transformation and its investment platform unit strategy to drive growth and profitability. In expanding its footprint to the most promising startup ecosystems in these geographies, Forgepoint and Santander will combine their expertise to identify and nurture a more diverse range of investment opportunities in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and relevant emerging technologies, applying their unrivalled resources and global network to help companies succeed.

Cybersecurity innovation across these regions is booming in response to the accelerated pace of digital transformation, persistent ransomware incidents, and stricter regulatory requirements. Geopolitical tensions and the rise of generative AI have further exacerbated the threat landscape, compelling organizations to enhance their defenses. The European cybersecurity sector has grown significantly since 20131, with a threefold increase in the number of fundraising rounds and a twelvefold increase in the total amount raised, confirming the acceleration of its growth trajectory and outpacing other regions.

Forgepoint Capital’s Europe-based team members are experienced investors and company builders who have together achieved over USD $2 billion in successful exits in cybersecurity:

• Damien Henault, Managing Director brings nearly three decades of global experience as a technology investor, M&A advisor, strategy and corporate development executive and entrepreneur. He previously led cybersecurity investments at European growth-stage technology fund TempoCap, co-founded early-stage VC firm Andurance Ventures, and served as a Senior Advisor at Ondra Partners, Senior Director of Strategy and Corporate Development at Hewlett-Packard and a Technology, Media, and Telecom investment banker at J.P. Morgan. Early in his career, he founded an IT services firm in Paris and an internet service provider in Montreal.

• Michael Cortez, Partner has extensive experience as a seed and early-stage cybersecurity investor, investment banker, and technology product manager. Prior to Forgepoint International, he led investments and US operations as a Partner at YL Ventures, a leading seed-stage VC firm that invests in and supports Israeli cybersecurity entrepreneurs. He also worked as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs, and a product manager and data analyst at Home Junction, a real estate data technology company.

• Jaime Goyarrola, Chief Financial Officer is a seasoned SaaS company CFO, and experienced advisor in M&A transactions, bringing a solid background in M&A transactions and fundraising. Prior to Forgepoint International, Jaime served as Finance Director at Forgepoint portfolio company Constella Intelligence, CFO at Alto Data Analytics, Transaction Services Manager at PwC, and Financial Auditor at EY.

Forgepoint’s new London hub will serve as home base for its international activities, enabling the team to easily access relevant ecosystems. Forgepoint will also expand its Global Advisory Council, adding more cybersecurity and technology leaders, seasoned operators, advisors and decision-makers across public and private sectors to provide strategic guidance to its investment team and portfolio company entrepreneurs.

Damien Henault, Managing Director of Forgepoint International, says: “It’s no secret that cybersecurity ecosystems outside the US are now booming with incredible talent and innovation. We see tremendous potential in supporting these entrepreneurs and their companies as they develop and build next generation solutions that will futureproof modern industry.”

Javier García-Carranza, Group Executive Vice President and Head of Asset Management, Private Banking, and Insurance at Grupo Santander, says: “Investing in and supporting innovative cybersecurity companies is critical to advancing economic and social progress. Together with Forgepoint and Forgepoint Capital International, we seek to empower the next wave of cybersecurity leaders creating a safer, more resilient, and more prosperous world for everyone.”

Alberto Yépez, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Forgepoint Capital, says: “Our global expansion reflects our commitment to cultivating cybersecurity innovation on a broader scale. As digital threats evolve, we recognize that groundbreaking solutions are being developed worldwide. We’re thrilled to partner with visionary entrepreneurs building for the betterment of industry and society while making lasting impact.”

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About Forgepoint Capital

Forgepoint Capital is a leading venture capital firm that invests in transformative cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure software companies protecting the digital future. With $1B+ AUM, the largest sector-focused investment team, and portfolio of over 30 companies, the firm brings over 100 years of proven company-building experience and its Global Advisory Council of nearly 100 leaders to support entrepreneurs advancing innovation globally. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area and London, Forgepoint is proud to help category-defining companies reach their market potential. Learn more at www.forgepointcap.com and on LinkedIn.