Cybersecurity M&A Is Surging as AI Reshapes the Market

Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning , Events , Next-Generation Technologies & Secure Development Cybersecurity M&A Is Surging as AI Reshapes the Market Momentum Cyber CEO Eric McAlpine on the Funding Velocity of AI-Native Startups Michael Novinson (MichaelNovinson) • March 24, 2026     Share Post Share Credit Eligible Get Permission Video Player 00:00 00:10 Eric McAlpine, founder and CEO, Momentum Cyber Investors have recently poured more capital into fewer cybersecurity startups as artificial intelligence continues to reshape how organizations are built and scaled. Recent trends reflect a structural change in funding, where AI-native startups are moving faster from concept to market, attracting large early-stage investments. See Also: How Technical Debt Puts Critical Infrastructure at Risk Eric McAlpine, founder and CEO of Momentum Cyber, said the funding model is changing as investors are backing proven founders and AI-driven architectures with immediate scale potential. "Some of these AI companies are shipping code at an alarming pace. We're starting to see just the velocity of being able to develop code at such a pace where you're now able to fuel go-to-market right out of the gate," McAlpine said. In this video interview with Information Security Media Group at RSAC Conference 2026, McAlpine also discussed: The expansion of AI security into a defined market category; Why startups should focus on building durable companies rather than targeting potential buyers; Why strategic buyers are outpacing private equity in M&A activity. McAlpine has nearly 30 years of experience in technology as a strategic advisor to boards, founders and CEOs. A sought-after cybersecurity speaker, he shares insights on M&A, capital markets and industry trends, and is widely recognized as a leading dealmaker with a prolific transaction track record.