A startup trying to IKEA-ify cybersecurity for SMEs

This article is a part of Startup Spotlight, a series that features young, up-and-coming startups.

Image credit: Timmy Loen

While shaping cybersecurity policy at Singapore’s Cyber Security Agency, Gaurav Keerthi saw a persistent gap. Regulations were designed to raise security standards, but the market failed to produce practical tools for small businesses. 

After some time at Ensign, a cybersecurity provider based in Singapore, where he built an early version of his idea, he partnered with former colleague Zaishao Cheng to spin out the project and launch StrongKeep Cybersecurity.

😟 Problem

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly required to meet cybersecurity standards by regulators and clients. However, most lack the budget, time, or expertise to manage security effectively.

Cybersecurity solutions are typically designed for large enterprises, leaving SMEs forced to choose between costly consultants or a patchwork of individual tools. This leaves security gaps and makes it difficult to prove compliance, a growing concern as cyberattacks on small businesses continue to rise.

💡 Solution

StrongKeep offers an all-in-one cybersecurity platform designed for non-technical users, comparing its approach to IKEA’s model for furniture. It combines essential tools and guided workflows to help SMEs protect themselves and meet compliance requirements without needing consultants.

The platform provides businesses with a simple and affordable way to manage security basics:

• Device security protects endpoints from common threats
• Staff training helps employees stay security-aware
• Offers step-by-step guidance to meet standards like Cyber Essentials.

Image credit: StrongKeep

📊 Market size

StrongKeep is initially focused on Singapore, targeting a segment of around 40,000 SMEs in regulated or supply-chain critical industries, and key vendors. With an average annual contract value of S$1,500 (US$ 1,190) to S$2,000 (US$ 1,587), this represents a serviceable available market of around S$72 million (US$57.1 million).

The company plans a second phase of expansion into nearby ASEAN markets like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. This move is estimated to expand the total addressable market to between S$150 million (US$119 million) and S$250 million (US$198 million) annually.

🤝 Team

• Gaurav Keerthi. CEO. Former deputy commissioner at Singapore’s Cyber Security Agency (CSA), and former CIO of the Republic of Singapore Air Force.
• Zaishao Cheng. COO. Former investment director at Temasek, where he led early-stage cybersecurity investments.
• Clement Chai. Product lead. Former product manager at Singtel and Ensign.

🚀 Traction

🏆 Competition

💰 Financials