SILVER SPRING, Md. – The Security Industry Association (SIA) has launched Startups in Security, a new community and accelerator program for security innovators.
This initiative, guided by SIA’s executive advisory board, is “designed to identify, support and partner with innovative startups, scale-ups and industry leaders shaping the future of security technology,” according to the association announcement.
Startups in Security is designed for companies classified as startups or scale-ups who are “seeking to propel their growth and establish industry relationships,” the announcement says. Eligible startups include:
- Companies in their early operational stages and focused on product/service development
- Innovation-oriented businesses introducing novel solutions
- Organizations targeting large or emerging markets with significant growth potential
- Companies that typically rely on external funding for growth
- Businesses managing significant market and financial uncertainties
Participation is not limited by company size, age or sector, though tech startups are predominant.
Why SIA Launched Startups in Security
“The SIA Startups in Security program represents a pivotal shift in how we embrace innovation in our industry,” says Lee Odess, CEO of The Access Control Collective, member of the SIA executive advisory board and co-chairman of SIA Startups in Security, in the association announcement.
“We’re creating more than just a committee; we’re building a dynamic community that will identify, nurture and accelerate the next generation of security solutions,” he says. “By bringing together startups, established industry leaders and SIA’s resources, we’re setting the foundation for transformative growth and collaboration that will shape the future of security.”
“In the security industry, innovation isn’t just an advantage; it’s essential for survival,” says Robert Lydic, president of Wavelynx Technologies, member of the SIA Executive Advisory Board and co-chairman of SIA Startups in Security, in the announcement.
“Startups bring that vital spark, but navigating this complex landscape alone can be daunting,” he says. “A robust community and support program, fostering networking, idea sharing, mentoring and collaboration, isn’t just helpful; it’s the lifeline that can transform a promising idea into a thriving business, ensuring an even brighter future of our industry.
“Personally, I’ve benefited immensely from the support and guidance of mentors throughout my career. I’ve seen firsthand how these connections can make all the difference, and I’m thrilled to be part of an initiative that will provide similar opportunities for the next generation of security innovators,” says Lydic.
Startups in Security will hold monthly meetings (some virtual and some in person) in which community members can share information, engage in peer-to-peer exchange and examine specific challenges and topics within the industry.
The community will hold its first gathering on Thursday, April 3, in the Venetian Expo during ISC West 2025. At this meeting, startup leaders can connect with fellow entrepreneurs and industry innovators, learn about the new community’s plans and momentum, preview upcoming initiatives and opportunities and discover ways to get actively involved in the program. Learn more and RSVP here.
Through the Startups in Security program, which includes access to SIA research reports and SIA’s Member Accelerated Performance (MAP) tools, startup companies who are not yet SIA members can join SIA at a special rate, which includes standard SIA membership benefits plus involvement in Startups in Security community activities; access to special community events; and discounts on registrations to Securing New Ground (SNG), the security industry’s executive conference hosted by SIA.
In addition to the in-person gathering at ISC West, Startups in Security will host a meeting in New York City on Oct. 13 leading up to SNG 2025, along with 2025 meetings at ISC East and The Security Event. Regular existing SIA corporate members who qualify as startups are eligible to join the Startups in Security community without needing to change their membership status.
