Hilltop Technologies selected as LaunchKC Liftoff Grant Winner

11/22/2024

Hilltop Technologies has been selected as one of seven winners in the LaunchKC Liftoff Grants competition. More than 100 companies from across the nation applied for this highly competitive program, highlighting Hilltop’s innovative approach to cybersecurity and its commitment to supporting Kansas City’s tech community and beyond. The grant, which includes $55,000 in non-diluted equity and access to additional resources, will help drive Hilltop’s growth and advance its development efforts.

William Jewell College shares a strategic partnership with Hilltop Technologies, a pioneering cybersecurity firm founded by alumni. The College and Hilltop Technologies launched a unique cybersecurity program at Jewell designed to transform the educational and professional landscape for students pursuing careers in cybersecurity.

Hilltop’s mission began with a crisis. In the fall of 2023, a ransomware attack disrupted operations at William Jewell College, shining a light on the vulnerabilities faced by educational institutions. Two alumni, Nick Gicinto and Conner Hazelrigg, joined forces to develop a solution. Together, they founded Hilltop Technologies to protect organizations like their alma mater and ensure that accessible, effective cybersecurity solutions were within reach for those most at risk.

“This is more than a grant—it’s a validation of our mission and a testament to our incredible team,” said Nick Gicinto, CEO and co-founder of Hilltop Technologies. “We’re honored to be recognized by LaunchKC, especially here in Kansas City, where our roots run deep. This funding will amplify our efforts to make cybersecurity solutions accessible to those who need them most, including small businesses and educational institutions that are often overlooked.”

Gicinto added, “We are equally excited about what this means for the future workforce. LaunchKC’s support bolsters our commitment to training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals—young talent who will go on to protect Kansas City businesses and beyond for decades to come.” 

Conner Hazelrigg, COO and co-founder of Hilltop Technologies, said, “This grant helps us grow our educational partnerships and create opportunities for students to gain real-world experience by working with the tools they’ll use to protect their own institutions.”

Hilltop’s impact extends beyond Kansas City. As one of the first non-military tech companies to expand into Ukraine since the onset of the war, Hilltop has also established an educational partnership with SET University to invest in cyber talent in the region. “We’ve built Hilltop around the idea of serving those others might overlook,” Hazelrigg said. “From small businesses to educational institutions, we aim to create accessible, affordable solutions that help the most vulnerable.”

The recognition from LaunchKC comes at a pivotal moment for Hilltop, solidifying its role in Kansas City’s tech ecosystem. “We’re proud to be part of LaunchKC’s vision to elevate entrepreneurs in our city,” Gicinto said. “Together, we’re not just growing a company; we’re building a stronger, more secure future for everyone.”