While working in IoT security during the mid-2010s, Alex Zenla discovered a pressing issue: the limited processing power of IoT devices compared to more robust PCs and servers hindered their ability to utilize advanced cloud protections. This vulnerability often left embedded devices exposed directly to local networks, increasing their risk of attacks. Reflecting on this challenge over the years, Zenla developed technology that would allow devices to operate in isolated cloud environments, called “containers.” Fast forward a decade, and Zenla now co-heads Edera, a company focused on revolutionizing cloud security.
Edera specializes in cloud workload isolation technologies that tackle significant security challenges where multiple applications or clients share cloud infrastructure. As AI workloads increasingly rely on powerful GPUs, which were not originally designed for secure isolation, vulnerabilities linger within the system. Zenla highlights the pressing need for proper safeguards, noting that previous trade-offs often neglected acceptable security standards.
Recently, Edera secured a $15 million Series A funding round, led by Microsoft’s venture fund, M12, after an initial $5 million seed round in October. This milestone is significant, particularly against a backdrop of a sluggish investment climate for tech ventures, and especially points to the company’s all-female founding team, which includes two trans women.
The venture capital landscape remains predominantly male, with women founders historically receiving a fraction of the funding necessary for growth. Even when they do attract initial investment, securing subsequent rounds is generally more challenging for female-led startups. Edera’s CEO, Emily Long, acknowledges the systemic hurdles but emphasizes their role in inspiring inclusivity within the tech sector. The team has experienced a surge of interest from skilled women wanting to join their ranks.
Zenla, Long, and cofounder Ariadne Conill aim to simplify the implementation of robust security measures for network engineers. Their packaging aims to mitigate risks associated with outdated software or compromised systems. Long stresses that reliance on legacy infrastructure inherently increases vulnerability. Thus, their goal with Edera’s technologies is to remove the security-versus-performance dilemma, empowering organizations to adopt innovative solutions without compromising on safety.
