New private equity firm Copilot Capital has made its second acquisition with a swoop for a firm looking to shape the future of cybersecurity training.
The $200 million pan-European fund, backed by global investment firm The Friedkin Group, has taken a majority investment into London-based SecureFlag.
SecureFlag specialises in providing hands-on, practical secure coding training for developers and engineers involved in software development. Partnering with hundreds of blue-chip global companies, SecureFlag offers a unique suite of training products across more than 45 coding languages.
Unlike conventional training methods, its platform immerses developers in real-world scenarios, driving engagement and effective learning, and ultimately more secure code deployment.
“This investment aligns with Copilot Capital’s focus on supporting innovative companies that don’t fit the profile of a typical VC or buyout fund, despite their obvious potential,” said John Messer (pictured), managing partner of Copilot.
“SecureFlag’s direct and effective SaaS-based approach to cybersecurity training aligns well with our investment thesis.”
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Andrea Scaduto and Emilio Pinna, founders of SecureFlag, both worked at JP Morgan in senior cybersecurity roles prior to the business. They have reinvested a substantial portion of their proceeds into the transaction and will continue to lead the business with the full support of Copilot.
CEO Scaduto added: “Joining forces with Copilot marks a significant milestone for our business.
“John and his team bring expertise across go-to-market, hiring, scaling software businesses and more. The partnership will help scale our operations and further develop our product offerings to meet the growing demand for secure coding solutions. We look forward to working together.”
Copilot has also taken a majority investment in Relesys, an all-in-one app for communications, training and operations for the retail sector, since launching this year.