Belgian cybersecurity unicorn Aikido Security tops latest Sifted ranking

2026-06-10 · Source: Sifted · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity & Data Privacy, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

Aikido Security, a Ghent-based cybersecurity software developer, has topped the third Sifted 100: France and Benelux Leaderboard, an annual ranking of the region's 100 fastest-growing companies. Cofounded in 2022, Aikido achieved a 947.14% two-year revenue Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) between 2023 and 2025. Following Aikido are Paris-based Mister IA, providing AI training for companies, with a 558.28% CAGR, and Inbolt, offering software for industrial robots, at 508.28% CAGR. The ranking, partnered with Nebius, identifies companies with the strongest revenue growth over the past three financial years. Paris remains the dominant hub with 64 startups, while B2B software is the top-performing vertical, accounting for 37 companies. Notably, 21 companies are AI-native, up from five last year, and 33 of the top 100 report profitability.

Key takeaway

For entrepreneurs and investors evaluating European startup opportunities, this ranking highlights the significant growth potential in B2B software, particularly AI-native solutions. You should prioritize companies demonstrating transparent, accessible product offerings, as exemplified by Aikido Security's success with online pricing and documentation. This approach can streamline customer acquisition and foster rapid revenue expansion, making such ventures more attractive for investment and scaling.

Key insights

Simplicity in product acquisition and transparent pricing drives rapid growth for B2B software startups.

Principles

• Transparency in pricing and documentation accelerates sales cycles.
• B2B software remains a high-growth vertical in European startups.
• AI-native solutions are a rapidly expanding segment within the startup ecosystem.

Method

Aikido Security's strategy involved making product purchase easy, with online pricing and help documentation, thereby reducing the need for multiple sales calls.

In practice

• Publish product pricing and comprehensive help documentation online.
• Focus on B2B software solutions for strong market potential.
• Integrate AI-native capabilities to enhance product offerings.

Topics

• Startup Rankings
• Cybersecurity
• B2B Software
• AI Training
• Revenue Growth
• Benelux Startups
• French Startups

Best for: Investor, Entrepreneur, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Sifted.