SIA Launches New Membership Program and Community for Startup Companies

  • Feb 25, 2025

The Security Industry Association (SIA) has launched Startups in Security, a new community and accelerator program for security innovators. This dynamic 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.

Startups in Security is designed for companies classified as startups or scale-ups who are seeking to propel their growth and establish industry relationships. 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.

“The SIA Startups in Security program represents a pivotal shift in how we embrace innovation in our industry. 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,” said Lee Odess, CEO of The Access Control Collective, member of the SIA Executive Advisory Board and co-chair of SIA Startups in Security. “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. Startups bring that vital spark, but navigating this complex landscape alone can be daunting. 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,” said Robert Lydic, president of Wavelynx Technologies, member of the SIA Executive Advisory Board and co-chair of SIA Startups in Security. “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.”

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, the United States’ largest converged security trade show. 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.

Featured

  • From the Most Visible to the Less Apparent

    The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) states “There are 16 critical infrastructure sectors whose assets, systems, and networks, whether physical or virtual, are considered so vital to the United States that their incapacitation or destruction would have a debilitating effect on security, national economic security, and national public health or safety or any combination thereof.” Read Now

  • Work Anywhere, Secure Everywhere: 2025 Tech Predictions

    Five years after the pandemic, organizations need a flexible work reset to stay productive and support any work arrangement. Despite the pandemic-fueled workplace shift that began five years ago, companies across industries and geographies continue to increase flexible work configurations. However, many tools adopted during COVID onset remain in place today, and they now need a reset to keep employees productive and secure regardless of location. Security leaders must re-evaluate existing practices and reinvest in zero trust security, passwordless environments, and automation adoption to improve efficiency and productivity. Read Now

  • Guiding Principles

    Construction sites represent a unique sector of perimeter security, especially amidst a steady increase in commercial construction. As in any security environment, assessing weaknesses and threats remains paramount and modern technology, coupled with sound access control principles, are critical in addressing vulnerabilities at even the most secure construction sites around the world. Read Now

  • Empowering 911

    In the wake of the tragic murder of UnitedHealth Group CEO Brian Thompson, media coverage flooded the airwaves with images, videos and detailed timelines of the suspect’s movements. While such post-incident analysis is not new, today’s 911 centers now have access to similar data in real-time. This technological evolution marks a pivotal transformation in emergency response, transitioning from analog calls to a digital ecosystem capable of saving more lives. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    The latest Qualcomm® Vision Intelligence Platform offers next-generation smart camera IoT solutions to improve safety and security across enterprises, cities and spaces. The Vision Intelligence Platform was expanded in March 2022 with the introduction of the QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC), which delivers superior artificial intelligence (AI) inferencing at the edge.

  • ComNet CNGE6FX2TX4PoE

    The ComNet cost-efficient CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is a six-port switch that offers four Gbps TX ports that support the IEEE802.3at standard and provide up to 30 watts of PoE to PDs. It also has a dedicated FX/TX combination port as well as a single FX SFP to act as an additional port or an uplink port, giving the user additional options in managing network traffic. The CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is designed for use in unconditioned environments and typically used in perimeter surveillance.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.