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Exciting Launch Announced for RSAC Conference Innovation Sandbox

The upcoming RSA Conference (RSAC) will once again take center stage in the cybersecurity domain as it opens submissions for its highly anticipated Innovation Sandbox and Launch Pad contests on October 14. This annual event is critical for emerging companies looking to showcase their innovative technologies and ideas to the industry. Since its inception in 2005, the Innovation Sandbox has become a launching pad for the brightest minds in cybersecurity, providing invaluable exposure and opportunities for young companies with the potential to revolutionize the field.

"For the last two decades, the Innovation Sandbox competition has provided a glimpse into groundbreaking ideas that significantly impact cybersecurity," noted Dr. Hugh Thompson, RSAC's Executive Chairman and Program Committee Chair.

Participants in the contest will compete for the prestigious title of Most Innovative Startup. Over the years, finalists from the Innovation Sandbox have collectively attracted more than $17.8 billion in total investments, paving the way for numerous mergers and acquisitions.

A Gateway to Success

The competition serves as an essential platform, not only for the finalists but for all entrants who gain critical insights into crafting their business pitches and refining their value propositions. Past winners have gone on to achieve remarkable success in the industry, underscoring the contest's ability to propel startups into the limelight.

This year’s Top 10 finalists will be announced in mid-February, with each receiving a notable $5 million investment aimed at fostering their innovative approaches in the cybersecurity space. Finalists will also pitch their ideas in front of a live audience at the conference.

Launch Pad: Nurturing New Talent

Complementing the Innovation Sandbox, the RSAC Launch Pad offers a unique platform for even earlier-stage startups. Modeled after a 'Shark Tank' format, it invites participants to pitch their bold concepts to a panel of esteemed venture capitalists, who will offer guidance and potentially catalyze relationships that drive the startups forward.

The submission window for both competitions will remain open until November 14, allowing ample time for interested parties to participate. The finalists selected for the Launch Pad will demonstrate their ideas on March 24, 2026.

A Transformative Experience

Entrants such as ProjectDiscovery, which won the RSAC Innovation Sandbox in 2025, have shared how the recognition changed the trajectory of their businesses. They attest to the overwhelming benefits of participating, including attracting top talent and meeting growing demands from enterprises.

Another notable participant, Aurascape, emphasized that being selected as a Top 10 Finalist significantly expanded their visibility within the industry. The feedback and validation gained from the RSAC platform have been instrumental in accelerating their growth.

Furthermore, RSAC 2026 Conference will feature the Early Stage Next Stage Expo, spotlighting 78 promising startups that are under five years old and have revenue below $5 million.

Mark Your Calendars

This year’s RSAC 2026 Conference will take place from March 23 - 26 in San Francisco. To ensure you have the most current updates and information about this significant event, visit RSAC's official site.

As RSAC continues to be a crucible for innovation, the upcoming contests promise to highlight the creativity and ingenuity present in today’s cybersecurity landscape, further solidifying RSAC's reputation as the premier gathering for cybersecurity professionals. Don't miss your chance to witness the next wave of cybersecurity innovations unfold!