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Guardz Funded $56M to Boost MSP Cybersecurity with AI-Driven Platform

Cybersecurity

Guardz, a Miami, FL-based cybersecurity startup, was funded $56 million, bringing its total capital to $84 million, in just over two years. The round was led by ClearSky, with participation from Phoenix Financial and existing investors, including SentinelOne, Glilot, Hanaco Ventures, and strategic angel investors from iAngels, GKFF Ventures, and Lumir, among others.

Founded in 2022 by Dor Eisner (ex-IntSights) and Alon Lavi (ex-Argus Cyber Security), Guardz emerged from stealth in early 2023 with a mission to safeguard small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) via their MSP partners. Their AI-native unified cybersecurity platform integrates identity, endpoint, email, cloud, and data protection into a single engine—powered by 24/7 managed detection and response (MDR) that blends AI-driven automation with expert-led threat hunting.

By consolidating multiple point tools into one cohesive system, Guardz significantly reduces MSP workload and alert fatigue. The company cites internal research showing that 77% of MSPs struggle with fragmented security solutions, hampering responsiveness and efficiency.

SMBs have long been overlooked by sophisticated attackers due to their limited resources; however, the advent of automated cybercrime and generative AI tools has dramatically shifted that dynamic. Guardz addresses this by enabling MSPs—the frontline defense for many SMBs—to offer enterprise-grade cybersecurity with simplified deployment, real-time threat mitigation, built-in compliance, and even cyber insurance coverage.

The company intends to use the funds to Expand U.S. operations, Deepen R&D in AI-native automation, Accelerate go-to-market efforts, and Strengthen platform integrations.

As cyber threats become increasingly automated and identity-centric, small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are becoming just as attractive targets as large enterprises. MSPs—often with limited resources—are caught in the crossfire. Guardz’s strategy to unify tools with AI-backed MDR addresses this pain point head-on, positioning MSPs as growth enablers, not just service providers.

With its latest $56 million infusion, Guardz is poised to accelerate a new wave of cybersecurity solutions designed for SMBs via MSPs. By combining AI-native automation, identity-forward detection, unified controls, and regulatory readiness, Guardz aims to become the cybersecurity backbone for the global small to medium-sized business (SMB) sector.

This round marks a pivotal milestone in Guardz’s journey—signaling a transformative step in how Managed Service Providers (MSPs) secure and scale managed services.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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Post-Funding Challenges: Why Startups Fail After Investment

Funding

Securing investment is often seen as a major milestone — and rightfully so. As a startup founder, I remember the thrill of closing our first funding round. It validated our idea, gave us breathing room, and opened new doors. But what many don’t realize is that raising capital is not the finish line — it’s just the beginning of a more complex race.

While capital is critical, it doesn’t guarantee success. In fact, many startups fail even after raising substantial investment. Understanding why this happens is essential — not only for founders like me, but also for investors seeking to protect and nurture their portfolios.

The Illusion of Safety After Funding

After receiving a cash infusion, it’s tempting to feel secure — to believe that the hardest part is over. However, funding often creates a false sense of safety. Founders may become less disciplined, misallocate resources, or shift focus away from solving core problems.

At the same time, investor expectations increase. With capital in hand, there’s pressure to scale fast — to hire, launch, and grow, sometimes without validating key assumptions. That pressure can push startups into premature scaling, one of the leading causes of post-funding failure.

Common Post-Funding Challenges

  • Poor Financial Management

One of the most common pitfalls is poor financial oversight. Startups often ramp up spending too quickly — leasing expensive offices, hiring large teams, or investing heavily in marketing before they’re ready.

Without a clear budgeting strategy or strong financial controls, money vanishes faster than expected. Ironically, access to capital can lead to waste rather than strategic growth.

  • Weak Business Fundamentals

Investment doesn’t fix foundational issues. If the product-market fit is weak, no amount of cash can create demand. Some startups treat funding as validation of their model, but in reality, they may still be far from product-market alignment.

Additionally, hiring before establishing clear traction or processes can lead to bloated teams and confusion. Scaling operations without understanding the customer or refining the product creates long-term instability.

  • Leadership and Team Issues

Leadership is often the invisible factor behind post-funding struggles. Founders who thrived in the hustle of early stages may not be prepared to lead larger, structured teams. Decision-making becomes slower, communication gaps widen, and culture may begin to erode.

Misalignment among co-founders or early hires can escalate when the stakes are higher. Toxic dynamics, unclear roles, or lack of leadership maturity can cause the internal collapse of even the most promising ventures.

  • Realigning After Investment

The smartest move after raising capital? Pause and refocus.

Founders must stay lean, prioritize outcomes over optics, and resist the temptation to chase rapid growth without substance. Building internal systems, clarifying vision, and refining product-market fit should take precedence over superficial milestones.

Regular and transparent communication with investors also matters. Rather than hiding struggles, bringing investors into the conversation builds trust and opens the door for strategic guidance.

Tracking the right KPIs — customer retention, lifetime value, unit economics — is crucial. Vanity metrics like downloads or social media followers may impress in a pitch deck, but they rarely reflect real growth.th.

How Investors Can Support Post-Funding Growth

Investment is more than a wire transfer — it’s a partnership. As investors, your role in the post-funding phase is pivotal.

Founders need mentorship, introductions, and real-world guidance. Help them focus on sustainable growth over aggressive scaling. Encourage them to make data-driven decisions, hire slowly, and maintain a culture of adaptability.

A startup is like a sapling. Investment is the water, but it still needs sunlight, pruning, and protection from storms.

Conclusion

Getting funded is a huge achievement — but it’s not the destination. It’s a tool that, if used wisely, can lead to growth and impact. But without focus, discipline, and strong fundamentals, it can also accelerate failure.

As a founder, I’ve learned that what happens after the funding is what truly defines a startup’s future. And as investors, you have the power to influence not just returns — but the long-term success of the companies you believe in.

Let’s raise not just funds — but resilient, mission-driven businesses that thrive well beyond the honeymoon stage.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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Build an Investment Strategy That Works: 5 Key Steps

strategy

Investing can open the door to financial growth and independence—but jumping in without a plan can lead to costly mistakes. Whether you’re a new investor or a seasoned entrepreneur, a thoughtful strategy is your most valuable tool. Here are five essential steps to build a solid investment strategy before you commit a single dollar.

1. Define Your Financial Goals

Before exploring investment options, ask yourself: What am I investing for? Is it retirement, buying a home, growing your business, or achieving financial freedom? Clearly defining your short-term and long-term goals helps shape your approach.

Equally important is understanding your risk tolerance. Some investors can weather market volatility; others prefer stability. Matching your goals with your comfort level is key to building a strategy that feels sustainable.

2. Understand the Investment Landscape

The world of investing is vast—stocks, bonds, real estate, mutual funds, crypto, and more. Each asset class carries its own set of risks, rewards, and timelines.

Take time to research and learn. Read books, follow credible financial news, and consider taking a basic investment course. The more you understand market behavior and economic cycles, the better your decision-making will be.

3. Create a Diversified Portfolio

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” Diversification means spreading your investments across different asset classes to reduce risk. For example, if the stock market dips, your bond or real estate investments may help cushion the blow.

A well-diversified portfolio is designed to perform more consistently over time. Even within the same asset class, diversification—like investing in various sectors or geographies—adds another layer of protection.

4. Set a Budget and Timeline

Only invest money you can afford to leave untouched, especially for long-term goals. Determine how much of your monthly or annual income can go toward investments after covering essentials and an emergency fund.

Next, match your investment to your time horizon. Are you investing for something five years out or 25? Shorter-term goals typically call for more conservative investments, while long-term goals can afford a bit more risk for potentially higher returns.

5. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Strategy

Markets change—and so do your life goals. A smart investment strategy isn’t static. Review your portfolio regularly to make sure it still aligns with your objectives. Consider rebalancing your asset allocation annually or when major life events occur.

Monitoring performance also helps you stay accountable and adapt to market conditions without making emotional decisions during downturns.

Conclusion: Strategy First, Investment Second

Successful investing is less about chasing trends and more about following a clear, personalized plan. By setting goals, learning the landscape, diversifying, budgeting wisely, and reviewing regularly, you can build a strategy that works for you—today and in the future.

Take the time to plan before you invest. The results will be worth it.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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Canid Funded $10M to Transform Pediatric Vaccine Management

Vaccine

Canid, a NYC-based, developer of a healthcare dashboard and process tool intended to simplify vaccination record management. The company’s tool offers administrative consulting, secures vaccine margins, automates your vaccine workflow, and oversees vaccine inventory, enabling state officials and pediatric practitioners to focus on their day-to-day practice.

Canid was funded $10 million led by Telescope Partners with participation from FJ Labs, Brooklyn Bridge Ventures, SeedtoB and other strategic angel investors. The new funding aims to expand Canid’s innovative vaccine management platform across ten additional U.S. states and enhance tools for managing pediatric vaccine patient populations.

Founded in 2020 by CEO Pedro Sanchez de Lozada, Canid offers an end-to-end solution designed to alleviate the administrative burdens associated with vaccine management in pediatric practices. The platform automates various aspects of vaccine operations, including purchasing, billing, inventory tracking, and patient outreach, allowing healthcare providers to focus more on patient care.

Sanchez de Lozada commented the vaccinations have been taken for granted for decades. They’re the #1 most valuable public health tool we have as a society, and yet they’re always the last priority for our healthcare system. Their goal at Canid is to change that. By eliminating the burden out of giving and receiving vaccines, they hope to make it exciting again to take part.

Canid’s platform addresses critical challenges faced by pediatricians, such as the financial strain of vaccine procurement and the complexity of insurance reimbursements. By purchasing vaccines on behalf of practices and managing billing processes, Canid ensures that providers receive full compensation for their services. The system also automates inventory management, reducing the risk of stockouts or overstocking, and facilitates the organization of mass vaccination clinics through an integrated scheduling feature.

The recent funding will support Canid’s expansion into new markets, particularly in the Southwest and Midwest regions of the United States. The company plans to leverage this growth to improve vaccination rates and public health outcomes by providing practices with tools to identify under-vaccinated children and streamline patient outreach campaigns.

As Canid continues to grow, its mission remains focused on supporting independent pediatric practices by reducing administrative burdens and enhancing the efficiency of vaccine delivery. By doing so, the company aims to ensure that children receive timely vaccinations, ultimately contributing to better public health outcomes.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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How to Make Your Startup Pitch Irresistible

Pitch

In today’s fiercely competitive startup landscape, a winning idea alone isn’t enough. The ability to translate that idea into a compelling, investor-ready pitch can make the difference between a dream fulfilled and a venture forgotten. So, what exactly elevates a startup pitch from passable to irresistible? Here’s a detailed look into the psychology, structure, and strategy that turns pitch decks into paydays.

1. Crystal-Clear Problem-Solution Fit The best pitches open with a relatable, urgent problem. Investors are drawn to solutions that tackle widespread pain points. Clarity is key—avoid jargon and articulate the issue and your solution in simple, impactful terms. A good rule of thumb: if a high schooler can understand your problem and solution, you’re on the right track.

2. Market Opportunity That Excites Size matters in the startup world. Investors want assurance that the addressable market is not only large but also growing. Use credible data sources to back your claims. Break down the Total Addressable Market (TAM), Serviceable Available Market (SAM), and Serviceable Obtainable Market (SOM) to show a realistic yet ambitious outlook.

3. Scalable Business Model A solid business model shows how the startup plans to make money and grow. This involves clear revenue streams, pricing strategy, and operational scalability. Bonus points if you can show recurring revenue potential, such as subscriptions or SaaS models, which are highly attractive to investors.

4. Traction That Tells a Story Early traction is one of the strongest indicators of a startup’s potential. Highlight key metrics: user growth, revenue, engagement rates, partnerships, or pilot programs. Even a small but enthusiastic customer base can tip the scale if it shows genuine market validation.

5. Competitive Edge and Differentiation A pitch without a competitive landscape analysis is incomplete. Identify direct and indirect competitors, then clearly communicate what sets you apart—be it technology, user experience, pricing, or distribution strategy. Your unique value proposition (UVP) should be memorable and defensible.

6. Visionary Yet Grounded Team Investors invest in people as much as ideas. A strong founding team with complementary skills, industry experience, and a track record of execution builds trust. Highlight relevant achievements, and if there are gaps, show how you plan to fill them with advisors or hires.

7. Compelling Narrative and Storytelling Facts inform, but stories sell. An irresistible pitch connects emotionally with investors. Weave a narrative around why the founders started the company, who it helps, and the mission driving it forward. Authenticity, passion, and confidence can captivate even the most data-driven investor.

8. Financial Projections and Use of Funds A detailed yet realistic financial forecast signals strategic foresight. Lay out your revenue projections, customer acquisition costs, burn rate, and break-even timeline. Just as importantly, explain how the investment will be used—product development, team expansion, marketing, etc.

9. Exit Strategy Even early-stage investors want a roadmap to returns. Whether it’s an IPO, acquisition, or other liquidity events, show you’ve considered exit possibilities. Highlight comparable exits in your space to reinforce the potential upside.

10. Visual Appeal and Pitch Deck Design Your slide deck is your visual narrative. It should be clean, consistent, and professional. Use high-quality graphics, minimal text, and branded design elements to reinforce credibility. Remember, your pitch deck often precedes you—make it count.

11. Confidence Without Arrogance Investor meetings are a performance, but humility goes a long way. Show conviction in your vision while remaining open to feedback. Investors often back founders they believe they can work with over the long haul.

12. Q&A Preparedness Anticipate tough questions. From unit economics to competitive threats, being prepared signals maturity. A founder who can calmly and accurately respond to scrutiny earns trust and respect.

Conclusion

From pitch to payday, the journey is as much about presentation as it is about the product. By mastering the art and science of pitching—combining a compelling narrative, robust data, and authentic delivery—startup founders can transform investor interest into committed capital. Remember, a great pitch doesn’t just secure funding; it builds lasting investor relationships and sets the stage for long-term success.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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Mura Funded $6M to Transform Field Service Operations with AI

Operations

Mura is a New York City-based developer of an invisible automation platform designed to streamline workflows within existing systems. The company’s platform integrates to provide the benefits of artificial intelligence without adding unnecessary complexity, featuring compatibility with pre-existing systems, automation capabilities, and lightweight implementation, enabling industries to enhance efficiency and optimize their operations.

Mura was funded $6 million, led by Level One Fund and Lerer Hippeau, with participation from angels and other investors. Seed funding round to revolutionize commercial field service operations using artificial intelligence.

Founded in 2024, Mura is building an AI-driven platform designed to streamline and optimize the day-to-day operations of commercial field service teams. These teams, which include HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and maintenance contractors, often face fragmented workflows, outdated legacy systems, and a lack of real-time visibility. Mura aims to solve these issues with an intelligent system that automates dispatching, scheduling, reporting, and communications.

The company’s platform leverages natural language processing (NLP) and predictive analytics to provide real-time decision-making tools. Field technicians and back-office staff can coordinate more efficiently using Mura’s mobile and cloud-based solutions. According to the company, early adopters have reported significant time savings and increased job completion rates since implementing the software.

The $6 million capital injection will be used to expand the engineering and product teams, enhance go-to-market efforts, and accelerate the development of proprietary AI models tailored explicitly for field operations. The company is also planning to scale its customer success team to support a growing base of enterprise clients across North America.

The commercial field service market, estimated at over $80 billion in the U.S. alone, has long been dominated by a mix of analog systems and enterprise software that is often too rigid or expensive for mid-sized contractors. Mura aims to fill that gap with flexible, intelligent tools that require minimal setup and adapt to the unique workflows of each business.

Mura’s product currently supports automated job dispatching, technician tracking, customer notifications, invoicing, and real-time analytics. Upcoming features will include AI-generated work summaries, predictive maintenance suggestions, and integrations with existing ERP and CRM platforms.

As AI continues to make inroads into traditional industries, Mura’s approach exemplifies a larger trend of “applied AI” — using machine learning not for futuristic applications but to solve real-world problems in overlooked sectors. With its fresh funding and ambitious roadmap, Mura is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation in the field services industry.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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The Legal and Financial Foundations Every Startup Needs to Get Right

Legal

Starting a business is an exciting journey filled with innovation, passion, and dreams of success. But before diving headfirst into launching your product or pitching to investors, it’s critical to establish the legal and financial foundations of your startup. These fundamentals are the bedrock of a sustainable and scalable business. Overlooking them can lead to costly mistakes, legal disputes, or even the failure of your venture.

Here’s what every startup founder needs to get right from day one:

1. Choosing the Right Business Structure

The first step in establishing your startup is selecting the most appropriate legal structure. This decision impacts everything from how you’re taxed to your personal liability and how you raise capital. The most common options include:

  • Sole Proprietorship – Simple to set up but offers no personal liability protection.
  • Partnership – Suitable for two or more founders, but still leaves personal assets exposed.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Offers flexibility and protects personal assets.
  • C-Corporation – Preferred for startups seeking venture capital due to ease of issuing shares.
  • S-Corporation – Offers tax benefits, but with restrictions on shareholders.

Tip: Consult a startup attorney or CPA to determine the best fit based on your growth plans.

2. Registering Your Business and Trademarks

After selecting a structure, register your business with the appropriate state and federal agencies. This step legitimizes your operations and helps with tax filings. Don’t forget about intellectual property:

  • Register your business name and logo to prevent others from using it.
  • Apply for trademarks if your brand identity is crucial to your business model.
  • Secure domain names and social media handles to protect your online presence.

3. Drafting Clear Founders’ Agreements

When co-founders are involved, a written Founders’ Agreement is essential. It outlines:

  • Ownership percentages
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Decision-making processes
  • Vesting schedules
  • Exit strategies

Having these terms in writing prevents future conflicts and protects relationships.

4. Building a Solid Financial System

Before your startup makes its first sale, set up robust financial practices:

  • Open a dedicated business bank account
  • Choose accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero
  • Hire a part-time bookkeeper or CPA to manage your finances

Track all expenses and income from day one to avoid cash flow surprises and stay compliant with tax regulations.

5. Understanding Tax Obligations

Taxes can be a major pain point if not managed correctly. Depending on your business structure and location, you may owe:

  • Income tax
  • Sales tax
  • Payroll tax
  • Self-employment tax

Stay on top of deadlines and consider hiring a tax advisor to navigate the complexities.

6. Obtaining Necessary Licenses and Permits

Different industries and locations require specific licenses and permits. Examples include:

  • Health permits (for food businesses)
  • Professional licenses (for consultants)
  • Seller’s permits (for retail)

Failure to obtain the right licenses can lead to fines or forced shutdowns.

7. Protecting Your Team with Contracts and Policies

Whether hiring employees or contractors, legal documentation is a must:

  • Employment agreements outlining roles and terms
  • Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect sensitive information
  • Independent contractor agreements to clarify non-employee relationships

Also, establish HR policies early on—like vacation, harassment, and remote work policies.

8. Getting Insurance Coverage

Startups often overlook insurance, but it’s crucial for risk management. Common types include:

  • General liability insurance
  • Professional liability insurance
  • Workers’ compensation
  • Cyber liability insurance

A small premium today could save you from a massive financial loss tomorrow.

Final Thoughts

Laying a strong legal and financial foundation may not be the flashiest part of building a startup, but it’s one of the most vital. By addressing these elements early, you position your business for smooth scaling, better investment opportunities, and long-term success. If you’re unsure where to begin, reach out to legal and financial professionals who specialize in startups—they’re worth every penny.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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Investors Psychology During Startup Pitches

Investors

When entrepreneurs walk into a room to pitch their startup, they often believe that the numbers, the slide deck, and the business model will carry them to success. While those are essential, there’s another layer many overlooks: the psychology of pitching. Understanding what investors really think during your pitch can make or break your fundraising journey.

Let’s pull back the curtain and explore the subtle mental evaluations, emotional triggers, and subconscious judgments investors experience as you present your big idea.

1. First Impressions Form Fast—Within 7 Seconds

The first few moments of your pitch are critical. Investors often make snap judgments about your confidence, credibility, and leadership potential before you even dive into your business model.

What they’re thinking:
“Can I trust this person to lead a company?”
“Do they seem competent, passionate, and authentic?”

Pro tip: Walk in with confident body language. Smile, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Establish presence before you even start talking.

2. Emotional Resonance Matters More Than You Think

Humans are wired to connect through emotions, and investors are no exception. A pitch that lacks emotional storytelling can feel robotic and forgettable.

What they’re thinking:
“Do I feel inspired by this vision?”
“Will others believe in this as passionately as the founder does?”

Pro tip: Use a compelling origin story or customer success narrative to bring your vision to life. Make the investor feel the problem—and your solution.

3. Investors Look for Coachability, Not Just Confidence

While self-assurance is key, overconfidence can be a red flag. Investors prefer founders who are open to feedback and show a growth mindset.

What they’re thinking:
“Will this person listen to advice?”
“Are they stubborn or adaptable?”

Pro tip: Show that you’ve evolved the business based on input or data. Mention feedback you’ve implemented—it demonstrates humility and maturity.

4. They’re Constantly Assessing Team Strength

A stellar idea is only as strong as the team behind it. Investors evaluate not just the CEO, but the founding team’s dynamic and execution ability.

What they’re thinking:
“Can this team deliver?”
“Is there a strong technical lead or marketing co-founder?”

Pro tip: Introduce your team clearly, even in solo presentations. Highlight key team members’ strengths, past successes, and how they complement each other.

5. Financials Must Show Potential, Not Perfection

You don’t need perfect numbers—you need believable ones. Investors know forecasts are estimates, but they’re looking for thoughtful, data-backed projections.

What they’re thinking:
“Is this founder financially literate?”
“Do the projections make sense or seem exaggerated?”

Pro tip: Walk them through how you arrived at your revenue estimates. Use industry benchmarks and comparable case studies to build credibility.

6. They’re Judging the Market More Than the Product

You may love your product, but investors prioritize market opportunity. A great product in a small market won’t excite them as much as a decent product in a huge, growing market.

What they’re thinking:
“How big is the total addressable market?”
“Is this a scalable opportunity?”

Pro tip: Highlight trends, underserved markets, and potential future expansions. Show that your business can grow fast and wide.

7. Investors Want to Know the Exit Plan

Even if it’s early days, investors want to understand how they’ll eventually get a return. It’s not greedy—it’s just their job.

What they’re thinking:
“What’s the likely exit scenario?”
“Will I get 10x return within 5-7 years?”

Pro tip: Mention realistic exit possibilities—acquisition targets, IPO potential, or similar exits in your industry.

Conclusion

Understanding the psychology of pitching helps you tailor your message not just to impress, but to connect. Investors aren’t just assessing your business—they’re reading you as a founder. Master the subtle cues, emotional beats, and mental filters at play, and you’ll move from just another pitch to an unforgettable opportunity.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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CodeAnt AI Funded $2M to Boost Code Review Automation and Software Security

Software Security

CodeAnt AI, a San Francisco, CA-based, developer of a devtool platform intended to enforce clean code practices in software security. The company’s platform automatically detects and fixes code issues to automate code quality checks and security vulnerability detection, write cleaner, more maintainable, and less error-prone code without the need for manual review and correction, enabling development teams to enhance code reliability, reduce technical debt, and accelerate delivery cycles.

CodeAnt AI was funded $2 million led by Y Combinator, VitalStage Ventures, and Uncorrelated Ventures, with participation from DeVC, Transpose Platform, Entrepreneur First and angel investors. The funding will be used to expand the engineering team, invest in machine learning research, and grow enterprise partnerships across North America and Europe.

CodeAnt AI has set out to address one of the most time-consuming and error-prone aspects of software development: manual code reviews. The company’s AI-powered platform uses large language models and deep learning techniques to analyze code submissions in real-time, identifying security vulnerabilities, logic errors, and code style violations before human review even begins.

Amartya Jha the founder of CodeAnt AI said, that code reviews are critical for catching bugs and enforcing best practices, but they’re often tedious and inconsistent. Their  platform acts like a supercharged reviewer, giving developers immediate, actionable feedback while ensuring that no critical security flaws slip through the cracks.

According to Jha, the AI can understand both the syntactic and semantic structure of code, making it capable of identifying subtle vulnerabilities that often go unnoticed in peer reviews. This includes common issues such as injection flaws, race conditions, and insecure authentication logic. By embedding security analysis directly into the review process, CodeAnt aims to reduce the average time it takes to detect and fix vulnerabilities—currently estimated at over 200 days, according to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report.

The company’s early adopters include fintech startups and mid-sized SaaS firms who have reported improved code quality and a 30–40% reduction in time spent on code reviews. The platform felt like having a senior engineer with a security background reviewing every pull request.

In addition to bug detection, CodeAnt AI’s tool offers real-time collaboration features for engineering teams. Developers can ask the AI for suggestions, request explanations for flagged issues, and even get auto-generated test cases based on code context. The platform currently supports JavaScript, Python, Go, and Java, with Rust and Kotlin integrations in development.

To further its mission, CodeAnt plans to launch a beta program for enterprise clients in Q3 2025, offering integrations with GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket. The company is also investing in explainable AI (XAI) to ensure transparency in how its recommendations are generated, a key concern for larger organizations seeking to maintain compliance and accountability.

As the AI arms race continues in the developer tools space, CodeAnt AI’s fresh funding and clear focus on security-first review automation positions it as a notable player to watch. With software vulnerabilities remaining a top concern for organizations worldwide, the startup’s goal of making every line of code safer may resonate beyond engineering teams—reaching the desks of CISOs and CEOs alike.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

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Silent Investors vs Active Investors: What’s Best for Your Business Growth?

Silent Investors

When growing a business, securing capital is only half the battle. The type of investor you bring on board can significantly impact your company’s direction, speed of growth, and long-term success. Entrepreneurs often face a crucial decision: silent investors vs active investors—which is the better fit?

Understanding the roles, benefits, and drawbacks of each investor type is essential. Let’s break it down.

Who Are Silent Investors?

Silent investors, sometimes known as “sleeping partners,” are individuals or firms who provide capital to a business without being involved in its daily operations. Their contribution is strictly financial.

Key Characteristics of Silent Investors:

  • No active role in decision-making
  • Rarely attend meetings or offer advice
  • Expect periodic returns or equity growth
  • Prefer a “hands-off” investment approach
  • Often involved in multiple ventures simultaneously

These investors typically trust the founding team or management to grow the business while they collect profits from behind the scenes.

Who Are Active Investors?

Active investors go beyond just funding a business. They often bring hands-on involvement, guidance, mentorship, and sometimes even a seat at the decision-making table.

Key Characteristics of Active Investors:

  • Offer strategic direction and mentorship
  • Participate in major decisions
  • May require board seats or voting rights
  • Use their networks to accelerate growth
  • Monitor performance closely

They often view their role as a partnership, not just a financial transaction.

Comparing Silent vs Active Investors: Pros and Cons

To determine which investor suits your business better, you must evaluate your needs across several dimensions: control, experience, funding stage, and growth goals.

FeatureSilent InvestorsActive Investors
Control & AutonomyFull control retained by foundersShared control and input from investors
ExpertiseLimited business inputValuable mentorship and experience
Time CommitmentNo interference in operationsRegular interaction and feedback
Funding Stage FitBetter for mature or passive investmentsIdeal for early-stage or scaling startups
Risk ToleranceMore risk-averseOften willing to take calculated risks
Growth SupportLimited beyond fundingOffers networking, hiring, partnerships

When to Choose a Silent Investor

Silent investors are ideal if:

  • You already have a strong leadership team.
  • You want to retain full operational control.
  • You’re looking for passive capital without oversight.
  • You have a well-established or low-maintenance business model.

Silent investors work well in industries like real estate, retail, or franchises, where growth strategies are proven and founders don’t need strategic input.

When to Choose an Active Investor

Active investors are a better fit when:

  • You need mentorship or industry connections.
  • Your business is in an early or high-growth phase.
  • You value strategic advice and collaboration.
  • You’re open to feedback and external oversight.

Startups in tech, health, or fintech often benefit from the involvement of experienced VCs or angel investors who help fine-tune product-market fit and scale operations faster.

Hybrid Models: Can You Have Both?

Yes. Many businesses opt for a hybrid approach, mixing both types of investors. For example, you might take on an active investor as a lead partner, while also bringing in silent investors for additional capital without diluting decision-making power.

This balance can provide the best of both worlds—funding plus guidance, without overwhelming the founding team with too many voices.

Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing

Before deciding, ask yourself:

  1. How much control am I willing to give up?
  2. Do I need guidance or just capital?
  3. Is my business maturing enough to run independently?
  4. Am I open to having investors involved in strategic decisions?
  5. Can I leverage the investor’s network for growth?

The answers will help you determine which investor type aligns with your vision.

Conclusion: Choose the Investor That Matches Your Business Vision

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the silent investors vs active investors debate. It depends entirely on your business stage, leadership strengths, industry, and long-term goals. If you’re confident in your ability to execute and want full autonomy, silent investors are ideal. If you crave guidance, partnerships, and strategic oversight, active investors are your best bet.

Align your investor choice with your growth strategy—and watch your business thrive.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.