Aikido's AI-Powered Cybersecurity Soars to Unicorn Status, Revolutionizes Software Development with Integrated Guardrails
January 14, 2026
AI is reshaping software development, and Aikido’s approach represents a necessary evolution in security for developers by integrating guardrails into the build process.
AI-generated code, autonomous agents, and continuous deployment are driving the need for continuous, adaptive security tied to the software lifecycle.
Industry context emphasizes AI’s material impact on development and the shift toward security models that align with AI-enabled workflows.
A European, bottom-up go-to-market, freemium model, and a focus on delivering real daily value underpin Aikido’s strategy, backed by a broad investor base including Notion Capital, Singular.vc, Syndicate One and new backers.
The cybersecurity funding environment remains robust, with nearly $14 billion raised in 2025, signaling strong investor momentum in security tooling.
Aikido’s platform is used by more than 100,000 teams worldwide.
Aikido reports rapid growth: over 100,000 teams, 5x revenue growth year over year, and triple customer base last year, with marquee customers like the Premier League, SoundCloud, Niantic, and Revolut.
Founded in 2022, Aikido reached unicorn status within three years, reportedly the fastest pace for a European cybersecurity firm.
Customer mix spans mobile apps, fintech, and music streaming, with about half of revenue coming from the United States and substantial international growth.
CEO Willem Delbare frames the platform as guardrails that integrate into existing workflows rather than hindering developers.
Valuation signals that top-tier capital remains willing to back infrastructure software that becomes a default layer in product development and operations, despite a tighter funding climate.
Europe positions itself as capable of building and scaling world-class software security, with a 180-person team and 60-plus daily deployments.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources

GlobeNewswire • Jan 14, 2026
Aikido Security Raises $60 Million Series B at $1 Billion Valuation to Lead Software Security
Economic Times • Jan 14, 2026
Belgian cybersecurity startup Aikido hits unicorn status with new funding round
The Next Web • Jan 14, 2026
Belgian cybersecurity startup becomes unicorn
SecurityWeek • Jan 14, 2026
Aikido Security Raises $60 Million at $1 Billion Valuation