Ballistic Ventures Seeks $490M For New Funds Amid Cybersecurity Boom
Ballistic Ventures aims to raise $490 million for two new funds as AI-driven cybersecurity threats increase. This move may boost the firm's investment in cybersecurity startups.
Original reporting · techcrunch.com
Original: “Ted Schlein’s Ballistic Ventures seeks $490M for new funds amid AI-driven cybersecurity boom”
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Key points from TechCrunch’s report
- Ballistic Ventures is seeking to raise $490 million across two new funds to invest in cybersecurity startups.
- The firm's founders have a strong background in the industry, including experience at Kleiner Perkins.
- The rise of artificial intelligence is creating new challenges for cybersecurity companies and increasing demand for effective solutions.
- The demand for cybersecurity solutions is increasing rapidly, with U.S. cybersecurity startups raising $11.5 billion in 2025.
- Ballistic Ventures' investment strategy is similar to that of other cybersecurity-focused venture capital firms.
Ballistic Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on cybersecurity, is looking to raise a significant amount of capital. According to regulatory filings, the firm is seeking $490 million across two new funds. This development is notable as the cybersecurity industry is experiencing a surge in demand due to the growing threat of cyberattacks.
The firm's founders, including Ted Schlein, have a strong background in the industry. Schlein, a former partner at Kleiner Perkins, co-founded Ballistic Ventures in 2021 along with other experienced professionals. The firm has already backed several cybersecurity startups, including Talon Cyber Security and Pangea.
The rise of artificial intelligence is creating new challenges for cybersecurity companies. As AI becomes more prevalent, the potential for sophisticated cyberattacks increases. This trend may lead to increased investment in cybersecurity startups that can develop effective countermeasures.
Ballistic Ventures' investment strategy is similar to that of other cybersecurity-focused venture capital firms. The firm's ties to Kleiner Perkins, however, may give it an edge in the industry. According to a cybersecurity investor, the firm's connections to a well-established venture capital firm can be beneficial.
The firm has already raised significant amounts of capital in the past. In 2022, it announced its debut fund, and in 2024, it raised another $360 million for its second flagship fund. The new funds will likely be used to invest in promising cybersecurity startups.
The demand for cybersecurity solutions is increasing rapidly. According to a recent report, U.S. cybersecurity startups raised $11.5 billion in 2025, the highest amount since 2022. The report also noted that AI-enabled companies accounted for a significant percentage of U.S. cybersecurity venture deals.
As the cybersecurity industry continues to evolve, firms like Ballistic Ventures may play a crucial role in identifying and investing in promising startups. The firm's ability to raise significant amounts of capital will likely be important in this effort. This article is based on reporting by TechCrunch.
Questions and answers
What is Ballistic Ventures seeking to raise?
Ballistic Ventures is seeking to raise $490 million across two new funds.
Why is the demand for cybersecurity solutions increasing?
The demand for cybersecurity solutions is increasing due to the growing threat of cyberattacks, particularly those enabled by artificial intelligence.
What is the significance of Ballistic Ventures' ties to Kleiner Perkins?
Ballistic Ventures' ties to Kleiner Perkins may give it an edge in the industry due to the well-established venture capital firm's connections and experience.
