Alcatraz
Category: AI in Cybersecurity
AI-powered facial authentication for access control, replacing badges and PINs with privacy-focused edge-based authentication. Alcatraz was founded in 2016. The company is led by Tina D'Agostin. Based in Cupertino, United States. Team size: 101-500. Total funding raised: Over $100 million. Latest round: Series B. Key investors include BlackPeak Capital, Cogito Capital, Taiwania Capital, Almaz Capital, EBRD, Ray Stata, CTBC Bank (Taiwan).
AMW Analysis
Alcatraz provides AI-powered facial authentication for physical access control, replacing badges and PINs with on-device processing that emphasizes privacy and security. Founded in 2016 and based in Cupertino, the company has raised over $100 million to date, with its latest Series B round totaling $50 million. The round was co-led by BlackPeak Capital, Cogito Capital, and Taiwania Capital, with participation from existing investors including Almaz Capital, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and Ray Stata.
Recent news indicates that Alcatraz is directing the Series B capital toward scaling its facial authentication solution into data centers and airports, reflecting a shift from general building access toward higher-security, high-traffic environments. The company’s edge-based architecture and frictionless authentication model are positioned to address vulnerabilities associated with traditional badge and PIN systems. No further product announcements or partnerships beyond the funding are present in the tracked news.
AMW analysis, generated from 2 tracked news signals.
- Founded
- 2016
- Headquarters
- Cupertino, United States
- Team size
- 101-500
- Total funding
- Over $100 million
Value proposition
Frictionless, secure, and privacy-first facial authentication that processes on-device, preventing unauthorized access and eliminating badge/PIN vulnerabilities.
Products and solutions
Rock X facial authentication device, Rock platform, Tailgating detection, Multi-factor authentication, Edge-based biometric authentication
Target customer
Enterprise buildings, data centers, airports, energy facilities, government, healthcare, and Fortune 500 companies.
Industries served
Data centers, Aviation, Energy, Government, Healthcare, Financial services, Higher education, Stadiums and arenas
Technology advantage
Edge-based AI processing ensures no facial images are stored in the cloud; 3D liveness detection prevents spoofing; seamless integration with existing Wiegand/OSDP access control systems.
How they differentiate
Focus on authentication (not recognition) with strong privacy guarantees; instant walk-through authentication; tailgating detection; and GDPR/CCPA/BIPA compliance.
Key partnerships
Active Shooter Prevention Project (ASPP) — Feb 2026, Convergint Technologies (global systems integrator), CBORD (technology provider for campus clients), Biometrics Institute (membership)
Notable customers
World's largest AI data centers, Major US airports, Energy companies, NFL teams, Major universities, Fortune 100 companies
Major milestones
Founded in 2016 by Vince Gaydarzhiev, Launched Rock X device, 300% YoY growth in data center adoption in 2025, Protected over 5 million employees as of 2026, Series B $50M closed April 2026
Market positioning
Leading provider of privacy-focused facial authentication for physical access control, trusted by Fortune 100 companies and critical infrastructure.
Geographic focus
Global, with strong presence in North America (US HQ in Cupertino, CA) and expanding in Europe (appointed Erik Nord to lead European business development in Feb 2026) and Asia (Taiwan-based investors Taiwania Capital, CTBC Bank)
About Tina D'Agostin
Previously served as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) at Alcatraz AI; prior to that, General Manager of Building Technology & Solutions at Johnson Controls. Over 25 years in security technology and smart building solutions. MBA from Rockford University, professional certifications from Stanford University.
Latest news about Alcatraz
More AI in Cybersecurity companies
Official website: https://www.alcatraz.ai
