Alcatraz AI Secures $50 Million for Physical Access
The Cupertino-based firm will use Series B funding to scale its privacy-focused facial authentication technology globally.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- Apr 10, 2026
Alcatraz, a physical security technology company, has closed a $50 million Series B funding round to expand the reach of its AI-powered access control systems. Led by Blackpeak Capital, Cogito Capital and Taiwania Capital, the round brings the firm’s total capital raised to more than $100 million.
The company, founded by former Apple engineer Vince Gaydarzhiev, utilizes facial authentication to secure entry points. Unlike traditional facial recognition, which often relies on surveillance databases, Alcatraz’s flagship product, "the Rock," authenticates users without storing photographs or personal data. This approach is designed to comply with privacy regulations such as GDPR and CCPA.
Current clients include major U.S. airports, energy providers and NFL teams. However, the company’s most significant growth has occurred within the data center sector. In 2025, Alcatraz reported a 300% year-over-year increase in data center adoption as the rise of artificial intelligence drives the need for heightened physical security at facilities housing critical infrastructure.
The funding follows a certification from Safe Skies, an FAA-funded organization, which approved the technology for use in high-security airport environments. Alcatraz officials stated the new capital will support expansion into international markets and new vertical industries throughout 2026.