Scalekit Raises 5.5M to Secure AI Agent Access

Agentic AI is taking the world by storm but it also represents a new security risk (Future Publishing via Getty Images)

As AI agents gain access to critical organizational systems, security concerns are mounting. A recent Gartner report predicts that by 2028, 25% of enterprise breaches will stem from compromised AI agents. Traditional authentication methods like facial recognition or passwords are ineffective for non-human entities, creating a pressing need for new security solutions.

San Francisco-based start-up Scalekit has emerged as a key player in addressing this challenge, announcing a $5.5 million seed funding round led by Together Fund and Z47. The company offers plug-in protocols that enable developers to integrate AI agent authentication seamlessly into their workflows.

• Why It Matters: AI agents are increasingly performing tasks previously handled by humans, requiring access to sensitive data and systems. Without proper safeguards, they present a significant security vulnerability.
• Scalekit’s Solution: The start-up leverages OAuth 2.0 standards and short-lived digital tokens to secure agentic workflows. Co-founder and CEO Satya Devarakonda emphasizes that existing identity systems are ill-equipped for autonomous AI interactions.
• Competitive Landscape: Scalekit joins a growing field of security firms like CyberArk and Okta, as well as start-ups such as Aembit and Teleport, all vying to solve AI agent authentication.

According to Okta research, 78% of IT executives are concerned about non-human identities accessing critical systems, with 69% viewing it as an urgent security issue. Scalekit’s modular approach has already attracted over two dozen customers, including SiftHub and Aerchain.

Key Takeaways:

1. Market Need: AI agents require new authentication methods beyond human-centric security protocols.
2. Investor Confidence: Scalekit’s $5.5M funding reflects growing demand for AI security solutions.
3. Industry Shift: Developers are prioritizing lightweight, scalable tools like Scalekit’s to future-proof workflows.

"AI agents are emerging as first-class users of business software, and current identity stacks can't keep up," says Girish Mathrubootham of Together Fund. "Scalekit built the missing agent identity infrastructure."

As organizations grapple with AI’s transformative potential, securing agent access will remain a top priority—and a lucrative opportunity for innovators like Scalekit.