Runlayer Launches Security Startup with $11M Seed Funding for Model Context Protocol

Runlayer, a new Model Context Protocol security startup, emerged from stealth with $11 million in seed funding. The funding was provided by Khosla Ventures' Keith Rabois and Felicis. The startup was created by Andrew Berman, a third-time founder who had previously launched companies such as Nanit and Vowel (acquired by Zapier in 2024).

Since its stealth launch four months ago, Runlayer has acquired numerous customers, including eight unicorns or public companies like Gusto, dbt Labs, Instacart, and Opendoor. Additionally, it secured David Soria Parra, the lead creator of MCP, as an angel and advisor. The MCP protocol, developed by Parra's team at Anthropic, has become the standard for enabling AI agents to connect with data and systems independently, with support from major model makers and thousands of tech and enterprise companies.

However, the protocol lacks built-in security, leading to vulnerabilities in several MCP implementations. This has given rise to various MCP security products, including those from CloudFlare, Docker, and Wiz, as well as numerous startups. Runlayer aims to differentiate itself by offering an all-in-one security tool that combines a gateway with features such as threat detection, observability, enterprise development, and detailed permissions, working with existing identity providers. Berman highlighted the team's experience and the product's breadth as key differentiators.

The startup was founded with the aim of addressing security risks and blind spots in the MCP protocol. With key investors and advisors on board, Runlayer aims to address the growing demand for secure MCP implementations.