How to Pitch at RSA Innovation Sandbox, Black Hat Startup Spotlight, and GISEC Cyberstars
1 min read
Summary
AI cyber security startups are using AI to enhance their products, with 7 out of 10 finalists in last year’s RSA conference innovation sandbox focusing on AI security.
AI security will drive growth in the sector, with VC-backed cyber startups raising $2.7bn in Q1 2025, a 29% increase from the previous quarter.
Entrepreneurs hoping to compete in the buzzy space would do well to heed the following advice, based on input from judges, founders, and investors who have been through the wringer, win or lose:
Know your stuff: You’re pitching to experts, not generalists, so demonstrate depth, clarity, and execution. Show something novel, not just better.
Highlight differentiators: This is an innovation contest, after all — what makes you unique? eschew platitudes or generic claims about the importance of security and market size.
Know your buyer: Who is it? What conversation are you a part of? And why now?
Show the problem: Focus not just on the solution but the problem(s) it solves, making it obvious for the judges.