Kaspersky calls on startups with cybersecurity solutions to join innovations programme

Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab is looking for established and late-stage startups that have a product or prototype in the cybersecurity vertical and have closed several deals, to apply for its new innovations programme.

In a statement yesterday (27 May), Kaspersky Lab said its newly launched Kaspersky Open Innovations Programme aims to help accelerate development and generate new business opportunities for both the firm and participating startups.

As part of the programme, startups working in the cybersecurity vertical and in other related fields will gain access to the company’s channel partner ecosystem, along with the firm’s global client base and expertise.

Kaspersky Lab and Biba Venture Partners have put together a challenge to select participants for its new programme

To join the programme, startups are invited to participate in a challenge organised by Kaspersky Lab and Biba Venture Partners.

The challenge is aimed at established and registered companies, as well as late-stage startups that have a product or prototype along with several closed deals or ongoing pilots. Applications close on 28 July.

Companies working on advanced projects at the periphery of cybersecurity — including in areas such as transportation, the industrial Internet of Things (IoT), anti-fraud and blockchain — can apply

During the selection process, experts will also assess a startup’s readiness to rapidly develop their business and their interest in collaborating with Kaspersky Lab to improve the global cybersecurity landscape.

The challenge will conclude with a demo day on 19 September in Milan, Italy. During the event selected entrepreneurs will present their projects to a jury of experts from Kaspersky Lab.

The startups behind the best projects will be admitted into the Kaspersky Open Innovations Programme.

Programme participants will receive technical and business mentoring, in addition to access to Kaspersky Lab channel partners — including distributors and resellers — clients and prospects via the company’s sales and pre-sales forces.

In addition, the startups will also be able to collaborate with Kaspersky Lab’s research and development office and will have the opportunity to expand in every region where the firm operates.

Commenting in the same statement, Kaspersky Lab head of verification Vitaly Mzokov described the initiative as a “tremendous opportunity” for growing businesses to develop their projects and conquer the global market.

Featured image: Free-Photos via Pixabay