YL Ventures

YL Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm with a specialized focus on seed-stage cybersecurity companies, primarily those founded by Israeli entrepreneurs. Established in 2007, the firm has built a strong reputation for identifying and nurturing early-stage innovation within the critical cybersecurity sector. Based in Mill Valley, California, YL Ventures acts as a crucial bridge, helping its portfolio companies navigate the complexities of establishing a U.S. presence and scaling their operations globally.

The firm's investment strategy is highly hands-on, extending beyond capital provision to comprehensive operational support. YL Ventures assists founders with critical aspects such as go-to-market strategies, business development, and talent acquisition, leveraging its deep industry network and expertise. This proactive approach is designed to accelerate growth and maximize the potential of its portfolio companies, enabling them to transition from promising startups to market leaders in the competitive cybersecurity landscape.

YL Ventures has demonstrated significant growth in its financial capacity and market influence over the years. Their latest and largest fund, Fund V, closed in 2022 with a substantial $400 million, marking a significant increase from their previous $120 million Fund IV raised in 2020. This robust capital base allows the firm to lead seed rounds, writing initial checks of up to $15 million, providing substantial early-stage funding to promising ventures. The firm boasts a strong track record of successful exits, including the notable acquisition of portfolio company Twistlock by Palo Alto Networks for $410 million, underscoring their ability to back high-impact cybersecurity solutions. They have invested in over 30 companies, solidifying their position as a key player in the global cybersecurity venture ecosystem.