Heelr launches marketplace for identity-verified cybersecurity experts

Luxembourg-based Heelr launched a business-to-business platform connecting organizations with identity-verified cybersecurity professionals for contract and project work. Companies can hire from the platform for tasks such as penetration testing, compliance preparation, and virtual chief information security officer services. Rates advertised range from $145 to $250 per hour.

Heelr targets buyers without a dedicated security function, including founders, operations staff, and IT managers who handle security issues by default. Providers must pass an identity check and have their credentials validated by Heelr before accepting paid work. Engagements are broken into milestone payments to provide confidence for both parties.

Compliance deadlines are a driving factor, with customers seeking security services for ISO 27001 audits, penetration tests, and product launches. The EU's NIS2 and DORA rules have added more requirements. Many small companies lack a full-time security team. Heelr notes the impact of artificial intelligence, as small teams rapidly develop products without dedicated security engineers.

Security services are a significant portion of corporate security budgets, with Gartner predicting spending to reach $86.1 billion by 2026. Heelr's CEO, Laurent Halimi, explains that the security industry has evolved, but the procurement process remains unchanged. Buyers still rely on referrals, email chains, and manual contracting.

Heelr leverages its Cyberr professional network for cybersecurity professionals, which launched in March 2024 after merging with Elite. Heelr also acquired the French cybersecurity community CyberTee last year. The platform is now open to independent consultants and boutique security firms.