The Global Security Challenge - 2007

The Global Security Challenge have just announced the world's five most promising security startups chosen to compete at the GSC Final in London for a $500K grant this November. They are:

- Auxetix (UK) - fortifies protection against multiple explosions through helical-auxetic nets

- EyeMarker (USA) - scans the eye to rapidly and non-invasively assess a person's health

- NoblePeak Vision (USA) - enabling the rapid detection and identification of people and objects at night without active illumination

- Psylock (Germany) - identifies users through biometric analysis of typing behavior

- XID Technology (Singapore) - face synthesis technology for real-time 3D rediction/replacement in a 2D video

Disintermediating the main sources of R&D with innovation and cost-effectiveness in mind, is a business practice that's already embraced by numerous deep pocketed future clients interested in outsourcing innovation in the form of such contests. I'm particularly interested in Psylock's future development, and it's great to note that the folks behind this typing behavior authentication even set up a demo of the concept.

And given that the GSC are also embracing the blogosphere, let's wish them long-term passion and sustained professionalism in their initiative to fund promising security oriented startups.