Aikido Security Acquires AI Startup Root For $100 Million Expanding Application Security Capabilities

Aikido Security, a Belgian cybersecurity unicorn, has acquired the Israeli AI security startup Root for an estimated $70 million to $100 million. This acquisition will expand Aikido's AI-powered application security platform and will facilitate the establishment of a new development center in Israel to retain Root’s team.

Summary of transaction details:

• Deal Type: Acquisition
• Transaction Amount: $100,000,000
• Acquiring Company HQ: Ghent, Belgium
• Target Company HQ: Israel
• Total Funding for Aikido: Approximately $85 million
• Recent Funding Round: $60 million Series B
• Valuation of Aikido Post-Funding: $1 billion

Aikido Security was co-founded by Willem Delbare, who currently serves as the CEO. The acquisition of Root enhances Aikido's capabilities in software supply chain security, as Root’s technology allows organizations to automatically patch open-source software without disruptive upgrades.