Cybersecurity startups surge in applications for RSAC Innovation Sandbox contest

On April 8, 2025, in the United States, the RSA Conference LLC announced the Top 10 Finalists for its 20th annual RSAC Innovation Sandbox contest. This competition is recognized as a prominent platform where promising cybersecurity startups showcase their innovative technologies. This year, there was a significant increase of over 40 percent in submissions compared to the previous year, with more than 200 startups applying from around the globe. This surge in applications highlights the contest's growing importance and impact on the cybersecurity industry, as it draws attention from a wide range of innovators seeking to contribute to safety in the digital realm. The RSAC Innovation Sandbox contest is held annually during the RSA Conference, which is known as the largest and most influential cybersecurity conference worldwide. The contest encourages startups to present their advanced solutions to a panel of judges and a live audience. The Top 10 Finalists from past years have included notable names like Imperva, SentinelOne, and Wiz, all of whom have made significant strides in cybersecurity. The competition serves as a launching pad for many companies, with finalists collectively achieving over 90 acquisitions and receiving more than $16.4 billion in investments throughout its history. This year's competition coincides with the 20th anniversary of the RSAC Innovation Sandbox, and to celebrate this milestone, RSAC has also introduced a new investment program aimed at supporting innovative projects within the field. With cybersecurity threats evolving rapidly, the need for innovative solutions has never been more critical. As noted by Cecilia Marinier, Vice President of Innovation & Scholars at RSAC, the new age of threats necessitates creativity and new technologies to protect society. The event is set to take place as part of the RSAC 2025 Conference in San Francisco, scheduled for April 28, where the finalists will showcase their groundbreaking ideas. This highlights the collaboration and dynamism within the cybersecurity sector, underlining the essential role that these innovative startups play in shaping a safer and more secure future.