New York-based Apono, which focuses on security for cloud environments, has announced the closing of a $15.5 million Series A funding round led by Israel’s New Era Capital Partners. Other investors include Brazil’s Mindset Ventures, Italy’s Redseed Ventures, New York’s Silvertech Ventures and initial seed investors. Apono has previously raised $5 million in a seed round.
Founded in 2022 by Israeli-born Rom Carmel, who serves as the startup’s CEO, and Chief Technology Officer Ofir Stein, Apono has built a platform that allows companies to create so-called Just-In-Time and Just-Enough privilege access for users.
Identity Management
New York-based Carmel and Stein, who operates from Tel Aviv, have over 20 years of combined expertise in cybersecurity and DevOps infrastructure. Carmel’s work experience includes several years at the office of the Israeli prime minister. He also attended a startup workshop at the Wharton School, where he came from Israel as an exchange scholar.
“Today, more than ever, we are seeing a shift in the identity space,” said Carmel. “Privileged access management and identity governance are converging, driving the need for more holistic identity and access security solutions, particularly within today’s dynamic cloud environments in which modern businesses operate.”
Apono said it has dozens of U.S. customers, including some from the Fortune 500. Its platform has been recognized in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for privileged access management, the company said.
Commercial Real Estate
MacKenzie Companies
Advertising / Media / Communications / Public Relations
Nevins & Associates
Financial Services / Investment Firms
Chesapeake Corporate Advisors
Commercial Real Estate
Monday Properties
Venture Capital
Blue Delta Capital Partners
Internet / Technology
Foxtrot Media
Ease of Use
“We were able to self-service Apono in minutes, which significantly enhanced customer trust in our global multi-cloud platform,” said Arthur Goren, director of Cloud Engineering at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, one of Apono’s customers. “This seamless integration allows our teams to work without friction, ensuring efficiency and productivity. Moreover, it helps us maintain a least-privilege cloud environment, which is crucial for our security and compliance standards.”
Apono said it would use the new funds to expand its U.S. sales and marketing teams, and invest in further research and development. It said its revenues had grown 300% in the last three quarters.
“In cybersecurity, it’s easy to stay heads down in the day-to-day, but it’s essential to lift our heads, look forward, and ensure we’re moving together with purpose and vision,” Carmel said in a recent LinkedIn post.
