Cybersecurity for Startups
Security that wins enterprise deals. Without the enterprise overhead.
You're Stuck Between Two Bad Options
Option 1: Ignore security until a customer asks. Then scramble to answer their 200-question security questionnaire with a week's notice. Watch your biggest deal stall because you don't have SOC 2.
Option 2: Hire a full-time CISO before you hit Series A. Overkill for your stage. Budget killer for your runway.
There's a third option: fractional security leadership that scales with you.
You Need Security When...
🚨 Enterprise Deals Are Stalling
Customers are asking for SOC 2 reports, security questionnaires, or vendor risk assessments. Your sales team doesn't know how to respond.
📋 Compliance Is Non-Negotiable
You need SOC 2, HIPAA, or ISO 27001 to close deals or meet regulatory requirements. But you don't know where to start.
🎯 Investors Are Asking Questions
Your board wants to know about your security posture. Due diligence is coming. You need real answers, not vendor brochures.
💼 You Don't Have Security Leadership
Your engineers are building features. Your CEO is closing deals. Nobody owns security strategy. Gaps are growing.
Not there yet? Read our guide: When You Actually Need a CISO
How We Help Startups
Virtual CISO Services
Part-time security leadership that scales with your growth. A fraction of the cost of a full-time hire.
- ✓ Security strategy and roadmap
- ✓ Board and investor reporting
- ✓ Compliance program management
- ✓ Security questionnaire responses
- ✓ Incident response leadership
SOC 2 Compliance
Get SOC 2 Type II certified in 3-6 months. Pass audits first try without the nightmare.
- ✓ Readiness assessment (find gaps before audit)
- ✓ Control implementation guidance
- ✓ Policy and procedure documentation
- ✓ Audit preparation and support
- ✓ Evidence collection management
Read: SOC 2 Compliance for Startups: Complete Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get SOC 2 certified?
Most startups achieve SOC 2 Type II certification in 6-9 months. The timeline depends on your current security posture and team bandwidth. If you need to close an enterprise deal faster, our Enterprise Deal Prep package can help you demonstrate progress while building toward full certification.
What's the difference between a Virtual CISO and a security consultant?
A Virtual CISO provides ongoing security leadership—strategy, board reporting, compliance oversight, and incident response. A consultant typically handles one-off projects. Most startups need both: a Virtual CISO for continuous guidance and project-based help for specific initiatives like SOC 2 or penetration testing.
How much does startup security cost?
Virtual CISO services and SOC 2 readiness projects are priced based on engagement level and company stage. Fractional security leadership costs significantly less than a full-time CISO hire—making it more practical until you hit significant scale. Book a call to discuss your specific needs.
When should a startup start thinking about security?
The moment you're handling customer data or preparing for enterprise sales. Most startups wait until a customer asks for SOC 2 or a security questionnaire—then scramble. Starting early (even with basic hygiene) saves money and prevents deal delays later.