• New private equity firm created to support high growth European software companies closes second buyout deal in quick succession
• Copilot Capital, a $200mm pan-European fund, is backed by global investment firm The Friedkin Group, a privately held consortium of businesses and investments
• Majority investment made into SecureFlag, a software business providing secure coding training solutions, founded by two London-based cybersec experts

Copilot Capital, a new private equity firm backing the next generation of European software champions, has made a majority investment in SecureFlag, an innovative software company on a mission to shape the future of cybersecurity training. 

UK-based software firm SecureFlag specialises in providing hands-on, practical secure coding training for developers and engineers involved in software development. Partnering with hundreds of blue-chip global companies, SecureFlag offers a unique suite of training products across more than 45 coding languages. Unlike conventional training methods, its platform immerses developers in real-world scenarios, driving engagement and effective learning, and ultimately more secure code deployment. 

Recognising a gap for investing in lower mid-market software across Europe, Copilot Capital backs companies generating €5-€15 million in annual recurring revenue and empowers founders to lead their businesses into the next growth phase. 

SecureFlag is Copilot’s second acquisition of the year, following its majority investment in Relesys, an all-in-one app for communications, training, and operations for the retail sector.

Led by managing partner John Messer, Copilot will actively support SecureFlag in the next stage of its growth journey, with the aim of establishing it as the global champion in the secure training space . 

SecureFlag CEO and co-founder Andrea Scaduto said: “Joining forces with Copilot marks a significant milestone for our business. John and his team bring expertise across go-to-market, hiring, scaling software businesses and more. The partnership will help scale our operations and further develop our product offerings to meet the growing demand for secure coding solutions. We look forward to working together.”

Andrea Scaduto and Emilio Pinna, founders of SecureFlag, both worked at JP Morgan in senior cybersecurity roles prior to founding SecureFlag. They have reinvested a substantial portion of their proceeds into the transaction and will continue to lead the business with the full support of Copilot.  

During its sale process, SecureFlag further demonstrated its innovative edge by developing an AI-powered threat modelling product, Threat Canvas, which enhances its platform's ability to provide real-world scenarios for secure coding.

John Messer, Managing Partner of Copilot, added: “This investment aligns with Copilot Capital’s focus on supporting innovative companies that don’t fit the profile of a typical VC or buyout fund, despite their obvious potential. SecureFlag’s direct and effective SaaS-based approach to cybersecurity training aligns well with our investment thesis, and we’re looking forward to working with Andrea and Emilio to expand their GTM capabilities and help shape the future of this exciting industry.”