CyberWire Daily 2025 DataTribe Challenge: Forging the future of cyber. [Special Edition]
Oct 5, 2025
Leo Scott, Chief Innovation Officer at DataTribe, discusses the evolving DataTribe Challenge, emphasizing its competitive format as a launchpad for cybersecurity startups. Anita D'Amico, a past winner, shares her Cinderella story from R&D to acquisition, highlighting the invaluable support she received. Greg Baker from Balance Theory explains the challenges of pitching and the benefits of DataTribe’s mentorship. Brian Proctor of Frenos shares his journey of creating AI-driven cybersecurity solutions, detailing how winning the Challenge boosted their visibility and investor interest.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Challenge Became A Structured Launchpad
- DataTribe expanded the Challenge into an all-day event with five finalists coached by Tribe members.
- The program now includes pre-event coaching to refine messaging and live pitching for wider VC exposure.
Apply If You Need First Institutional Capital
- Apply if you're pre-seed with a product and seeking first institutional money.
- Target big, over-the-horizon problems in cybersecurity, online trust, or digital domains.
Prize Is Small — Exposure Is The Real Reward
- The $25,000 prize is split so each finalist gets $5,000 and the winner earns bragging rights.
- DataTribe often invests in winners and many top cyber VCs attend the event to scout deals.