From a Small Apartment to a Global Cybersecurity Leader: The Journey of SecurEyes
The Genesis of SecurEyes
In Bhubaneswar, during the mid-1990s, as cyber cafes began to emerge and the internet was still a novelty, two young men from Cuttack were quietly laying the groundwork for a significant technological revolution. Karmendra Kohli and Simant Patnaik were pursuing their Master of Computer Applications (MCA) at Utkal University at that time. Fast forward two decades, their vision has materialized into reality. What began in a rented rooftop room in Delhi with just four individuals has transformed into SecurEyes, a global cybersecurity firm valued at ₹100 crores, entirely self-funded without external investors.
Today, SecurEyes operates eight international offices and serves over 1,000 major clients, including central ministries of the Indian government, the central bank, and numerous multinational corporations.
The Idea Takes Shape
The concept for SecurEyes emerged during the founders' MCA studies. They decided to study together in Hyderabad for their final semester, where they created a simple folder named 'SecurEyes' on a shared desktop computer, without any formal business plan in place. Recognizing the importance of timing, they devised a strategic plan. Simant traveled to Japan to specialize in enterprise solutions, while Karmendra went to the USA to master internet security. Eventually, they reunited to launch their venture.
Karmendra Kohli, the CEO and Director, reflects, "People had immense trust in computer systems, even though they were essentially 'black boxes' to them. We realized that cybersecurity would become crucial in the future."
Starting from Humble Beginnings
SecurEyes was officially launched in 2006 from a friend's rooftop apartment in Delhi, starting with just four team members. In the early years, they had to educate clients about the necessity of cybersecurity from scratch. The founders often made cold calls and rode motorcycles around the NCR region, explaining the need for digital security to traditional businesses.
Simant Patnaik, the CTO and Director, recalls, "In the initial days, clients often expected to meet someone older. However, our focus was always on delivering value."
Financial Discipline as a Core Principle
While many tech startups rush to secure venture capital funding, Kohli and Patnaik opted for a patient, debt-free approach. They adhered to strict financial discipline—fulfilling promises, maintaining a six-month emergency cash reserve, and reinvesting every rupee of profit back into the company. They also balanced domestic and international business, benefiting from higher profits in foreign markets while gaining stability from government and corporate projects, which shielded the company from global market fluctuations.
Innovating with AI and Supporting Young Talent
Currently, SecurEyes operates on two main fronts—specialized cybersecurity consulting and AI-based software products. The company offers end-to-end security testing, governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) frameworks, along with enterprise-level developer training. In 2023, their supervisory platform gained global recognition from a group of 131 central banks.
Beyond business, both founders are committed to addressing the shortage of cybersecurity talent in India. Through the SecurEyes Cybersecurity Academy, they provide training for the next generation of professionals.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Karmendra advises students from Utkal University and young tech enthusiasts in Odisha, "Follow your passion with dedication, seek good mentors, and collaborate with individuals whose skills complement yours. There’s no better time to start than now."
Simant attributes their two-decade journey to a simple principle—"Connection. Whether it’s with clients, the team, or our relationship, connection is built on trust and value first." As SecurEyes approaches its 20th anniversary, it is preparing for the next phase of global expansion, showcasing a remarkable story of Odisha's growing technological identity.