Forgepoint Capital – a leading cybersecurity, AI, and infrastructure software venture capital firm that backs entrepreneurs protecting the digital future – announced its strategic expansion into Europe, Latin America, and Israel. With a track record of investing in successful cybersecurity companies in Europe, including AlienVault (acquired by AT&T), Constella Intelligence, BehavioSec (acquired LexisNexis Risk Solutions), Lynx Technologies, and ReversingLabs, the firm is now establishing a dedicated management company (Forgepoint Capital International), team and European hub in London to invest in transformative companies in select ecosystems around the world.
The creation of the new management company is a major component of the strategic alliance between Forgepoint and Banco Santander to advance investment and innovation in cybersecurity and AI globally as the bank accelerates digital transformation and its investment platform unit strategy to drive growth and profitability. By expanding its footprint to the most promising startup ecosystems in these geographies, Forgepoint and Santander will combine their expertise to identify and nurture a more diverse range of investment opportunities in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and relevant emerging technologies, applying their unrivalled resources and global network to help companies succeed.
Forgepoint Capital’s Europe-based team members are experienced investors and company builders who have together achieved over $2 billion in successful exits in cybersecurity:
1.) Damien Henault (Managing Director) – Nearly three decades of global experience as a technology investor, M&A advisor, strategy and corporate development executive and entrepreneur. He previously led cybersecurity investments at European growth-stage technology fund TempoCap, co-founded early-stage VC firm Andurance Ventures, and served as a Senior Advisor at Ondra Partners, Senior Director of Strategy and Corporate Development at Hewlett-Packard and a Technology, Media, and Telecom investment banker at J.P. Morgan. Early in his career, he founded an IT services firm in Paris and an internet service provider in Montreal.
2.) Michael Cortez (Partner) – Extensive experience as a seed and early-stage cybersecurity investor, investment banker, and technology product manager. Prior to Forgepoint International, he led investments and US operations as a Partner at YL Ventures, a leading seed-stage VC firm that invests in and supports Israeli cybersecurity entrepreneurs. He also worked as an investment banker with Goldman Sachs and a product manager and data analyst at Home Junction, a real estate data technology company.
3.) Jaime Goyarrola (Chief Financial Officer) – A seasoned SaaS company CFO, and experienced advisor in M&A transactions, bringing a solid background in M&A transactions and fundraising.
Before Forgepoint International, Jaime served as Finance Director at Forgepoint portfolio company Constella Intelligence, CFO at Alto Data Analytics, Transaction Services Manager at PwC, and Financial Auditor at EY.
Forgepoint’s new London hub will serve as home base for its international activities, enabling the team to easily access relevant ecosystems. And Forgepoint will also expand its Global Advisory Council, adding more cybersecurity and technology leaders, seasoned operators, advisors and decision-makers across public and private sectors to provide strategic guidance to its investment team and portfolio company entrepreneurs.
KEY QUOTES:
“It’s no secret that cybersecurity ecosystems outside the US are now booming with incredible talent and innovation. We see tremendous potential in supporting these entrepreneurs and their companies as they develop and build next generation solutions that will futureproof modern industry.”
– Damien Henault, Managing Director of Forgepoint International
“Investing in and supporting innovative cybersecurity companies is critical to advancing economic and social progress. Together with Forgepoint and Forgepoint Capital International, we seek to empower the next wave of cybersecurity leaders creating a safer, more resilient, and more prosperous world for everyone.”
– Javier García-Carranza, Group Executive Vice President and Head of Asset Management, Private Banking, and Insurance at Grupo Santander
“Our global expansion reflects our commitment to cultivating cybersecurity innovation on a broader scale. As digital threats evolve, we recognize that groundbreaking solutions are being developed worldwide. We’re thrilled to partner with visionaryentrepreneurs building for the betterment of industry and society while making lasting impact.”
– Alberto Yépez, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Forgepoint Capital
