Ted Schlein’s Ballistic Ventures seeks $490M for new funds amid AI-driven cybersecurity boom
techcrunch.com Nov 4, 2026

Ted Schlein’s Ballistic Ventures seeks $490M for new funds amid AI-driven cybersecurity boom

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Ballistic Ventures, a San Francisco‑based cybersecurity venture firm co‑founded by former Kleiner Perkins partner Ted Schlein, announced plans to raise $490 million through two new funds: a $360 million third flagship fund and a $130 million Ballistic Ventures Fund B. The firm, established in 2021, has backed companies such as Talon Cyber Security, Pangea, and Armadin. Its fundraising comes amid a surge in AI‑driven cyber threats and a record $11.5 billion raised by U.S. cybersecurity startups in 2025, with AI‑enabled deals comprising 72% of the market.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · The capital influx positions Ballistic to accelerate investments in AI‑focused security solutions, addressing a growing gap between advanced threat capabilities and defensive technologies.
  • · This move could reshape the competitive landscape for cybersecurity startups seeking to capitalize on the AI boom.