Chainguard: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Chainguard is a rapidly growing cybersecurity company founded in 2021, known for its pioneering work in securing the software supply chain. With an unprecedented focus on integrating security and innovation, Chainguard aims to redefine how software is developed and deployed in a safer, more efficient manner. As of April 2025, Chainguard has achieved a significant milestone by raising $356 million in a Series D funding round, catapulting its valuation to $3.5 billion. Chainguard's innovative approach and commitment to open-source security make it a standout in the realm of cybersecurity solutions.

1. Foundation and Mission

Chainguard was established in Kirkland, United States, in 2021 by Dan Lorenc and other experienced industry professionals. The founders aimed to create a company that prioritizes both security and efficiency, targeting vulnerabilities within the software supply chain. Chainguard’s mission is to become the "safe source for open source," advocating for secure, vulnerability-free open-source software as a standard.

2. Series D Funding Triumph

In April 2025, Chainguard secured $356 million in a Series D funding round, elevating its valuation to $3.5 billion. This round was led by Kleiner Perkins and IVP, with participation from new investors such as Salesforce Ventures and Datadog Ventures. This level of investment highlights the confidence investors have in Chainguard's vision and growth potential.

3. Impact and Innovation

Chainguard’s products have been instrumental in saving customers over 200,000 engineering hours by addressing more than 55,000 CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures). The company continues to innovate its product suite, which includes Chainguard Containers and the newly introduced Chainguard VMs and Libraries, designed to ensure security from the ground up.

4. Product Suite

Chainguard offers a range of cybersecurity solutions, including minimal, zero-CVE virtual machine images and guarded language libraries. These are built entirely from source, providing a secure foundation for software development. The products support industries in managing and mitigating software vulnerabilities efficiently.

5. Open Source Commitment

Remaining true to its core philosophy, Chainguard developed a software factory that is responsible for building, patching, and updating over 13,000 individual packages and repositories. This commitment ensures secure open-source software usage, protecting enterprises from potential threats embedded in their software supply chains.

6. Global Reach and Adaptability

With no physical office, Chainguard embodies the modern remote-working model, employing over 350 individuals worldwide. This flexibility allows them to tap into niche talents globally, enhancing their software development and security capabilities.

7. Notable Collaborations

Chainguard's clients include prominent names like ANZ Bank, Canva, GitLab, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. These collaborations underscore Chainguard’s credibility and its valuable contribution to enhancing software security across various sectors.

8. Focus on AI and Machine Learning

Recognizing the rapid adoption of AI frameworks, Chainguard focuses on securing these new technologies against vulnerabilities. This proactive strategy ensures secure API integrations and mitigates risks associated with AI deployments in sensitive environments.

9. Industry Recognition and Influence

Chainguard’s innovative solutions have positioned it as a frontrunner in the cybersecurity industry. Its rapid revenue growth and expanded customer base reflect its rising prominence. With plans to exceed $100 million in annual recurring revenue, Chainguard continues to set industry standards.

10. Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Chainguard plans to expand its operations further into EMEA and APAC regions, strengthening its global footprint. The company remains dedicated to advancing its product offerings, ensuring safety and efficiency in software development processes across industries.

Conclusion

Chainguard's journey from a fledgling startup to a billion-dollar enterprise is a testament to its transformative approach in the cybersecurity domain. By marrying security with innovation, Chainguard not only enhances its own growth trajectory but also sets a new benchmark for software security standards in the industry.