Holly Ventures

Holly Ventures is a venture capital firm dedicated to backing world-class cybersecurity founders from the earliest stages of company building, specifically at the seed stage. The firm focuses on entrepreneurs who are tackling the cybersecurity industry's most significant challenges, providing both capital and strategic support to help them build industry-changing companies. Their investment thesis centers on identifying and partnering with high-integrity founders who possess the expertise and ambition to address massive cybersecurity problems with grit and relentless dedication to execution.

Founded in 2024 by John Brennan, Holly Ventures launched its debut fund of $33 million in December 2025. Brennan, who previously held senior roles at YL Ventures, DCVC, OCA Ventures, and Horsley Bridge Partners, established Holly Ventures with a unique model that prioritizes access and value over sheer capital volume for early-stage cyber startups. The firm aims to serve as a bridge between its portfolio companies and the broader security communities, offering direct engagement with decision-makers and a flexible approach to company support.

Holly Ventures invests exclusively in seed-stage cybersecurity companies, often participating in rounds typically ranging from $5 million to $10 million, alongside top-tier U.S. and Israeli firms. Notable investments include Astelia, an AI-native exposure management platform, and Venice, a modern Privileged Access Management platform. The firm's portfolio companies, such as Astelia and Venice, demonstrate its commitment to innovative solutions in areas like network management software and communication software.

The team's expertise is anchored by John Brennan, the Founder and Managing Partner, who brings over a decade of experience in venture capital and a deep understanding of the cybersecurity ecosystem. His background includes investing in numerous security startups and guiding founders through critical stages of development, from board preparation and executive hiring to customer strategy. Holly Ventures leverages a high-density network of limited partners and co-investors, including prominent names like Index Ventures, Notable Capital, Team8, Cyberstarts, Sequoia, General Catalyst, Foundation Capital, Bessemer Venture Partners, Vanderbilt University, and Okta Ventures, to provide founders with extensive market access and support.