AccessGrid Secures $4.4M to Transform Phones into Smart Key Fobs

AccessGrid Secures $4.4M Seed Funding to Reinvent Physical Security

San Francisco, CA – October 28, 2025 – A new player is poised to disrupt the antiquated access control industry. AccessGrid, founded by Auston Bunsen, has announced a $4.4 million seed round led by Harlem Capital, signaling a important investment in the future of secure access.

From Blockchain to Digital Keys: The Genesis of AccessGrid

Auston Bunsen previously spent years building quicknode, a prominent blockchain developer platform established in 2017, which garnered an estimated $60 million in funding. Following his departure from QuickNode last October, Bunsen sought to solve a seemingly simple problem: using a smartphone to seamlessly unlock doors.His vision culminated in accessgrid.

How AccessGrid Works: apis for a keyless Future

AccessGrid provides Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) enabling companies to integrate digital key management directly into Apple and Google Wallet platforms. This technology allows for keyless entry using a smartphone, even when the device is locked or, in the case of iPhones, even when the battery is depleted. The company officially launched in April 2025.

Addressing the Status Quo: A Security Upgrade

Bunsen asserts that the current access control landscape relies heavily on outdated infrastructure and vulnerable systems. Many systems operate locally, lack cloud connectivity, and utilize easily compromised identification technologies. AccessGrid aims to directly address these vulnerabilities. According to a recent report by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure security agency (CISA),physical access control systems are increasingly targeted by cyberattacks.

Advanced Security Features

“AccessGrid replaces that with an API that issues uncloneable credentials using encrypted payloads that can be instantly revoked via the cloud,” Bunsen explained. the company utilizes “military-grade” encryption combined with dual-encryption protocols. multi-factor authentication is implemented for all server access, bolstering security measures.

Key Players and Competitive Landscape

While AccessGrid is not the only company vying for a share of the digital access market, it distinguishes itself by offering a “pure play,” API-only solution. Competitors like SwiftConnect and Sharry often bundle service contracts and middleware with their hardware solutions.AccessGrid focuses solely on providing the foundational API, empowering developers to build customized access control systems.

Feature	AccessGrid	Competitors (SwiftConnect, sharry)
Business Model	API-Only	Hardware + Middleware/Services
Integration	Apple & Google Wallet	proprietary Systems
Security Focus	Uncloneable Credentials, Dual Encryption	Variable

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Innovation

The recent seed funding will be allocated to further enhancing AccessGrid’s security infrastructure and developing new product features. bunsen has indicated that the company is exploring expansion into the automotive sector, envisioning a future were smartphone-based access extends to vehicles. Did You Know? The global access control systems market is projected to reach $9.99 billion by 2028, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights.

Bunsen’s ultimate ambition is to revolutionize access control across the United States, creating a world where physical access is seamless and secure. “Our hope is to create a world where everything you normally need a key for opens just because you’re nearby,” he stated. Pro Tip: When evaluating access control systems, prioritize those with robust encryption and remote management capabilities to mitigate security risks.

Techcrunch event

San Francisco
|
October 27-29, 2025

The Evolution of Access Control

Historically, access control relied on physical keys and basic mechanical locks. The advent of electronic access control systems in the 20th century introduced card readers and keypads, improving security but also adding complexity. Today, the industry is witnessing a shift towards mobile-based access control, driven by the widespread adoption of smartphones and secure mobile wallet technologies. This evolution is not merely about convenience; it’s about enhancing security and streamlining the user experiance.

Frequently asked Questions About AccessGrid

• What is AccessGrid? AccessGrid is an API platform that allows businesses to integrate digital key fobs into Apple and Google Wallet.
• How does AccessGrid enhance security? AccessGrid uses uncloneable credentials,encrypted payloads,and multi-factor authentication to protect against unauthorized access.
• What differentiates AccessGrid from its competitors? AccessGrid is a “pure play” API-only solution, focusing solely on the software layer of access control.
• is AccessGrid compatible with existing access control systems? AccessGrid is designed to integrate with new systems,not replace hardware.
• What are the future plans for AccessGrid? The company plans to expand into the automotive sector and enhance product security.
• How much funding has AccessGrid received? AccessGrid has secured $4.4 million in seed funding led by Harlem Capital.
• When did AccessGrid officially launch? AccessGrid officially launched in April 2025.

What are your thoughts on the future of keyless entry? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!

What specific security features within AccessGrid’s system prevent unauthorized access beyond the secure element on the smartphone?

The Rise of Digital Key Technology

AccessGrid, a pioneering company in the digital access control space, recently announced a prosperous $4.4 million funding round. This investment is earmarked for expanding the capabilities of their innovative platform, which effectively turns smartphones into secure, versatile smart key fobs. The technology addresses a growing demand for convenient, secure, and streamlined access solutions across various industries – from property management and automotive to enterprise security. This funding signals a meaningful step towards a future where physical keys are increasingly replaced by the devices we already carry.

How AccessGrid’s Smartphone Key Fob System Works

AccessGrid’s core technology leverages a combination of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), near Field Communication (NFC), and robust encryption protocols to create a highly secure and reliable access system. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

* Mobile SDK: Developers can integrate AccessGrid’s Software Progress Kit (SDK) into existing mobile apps or create new dedicated access control applications.

* Secure Element: The system utilizes the secure element within smartphones – a dedicated chip designed to protect sensitive data – to store and manage digital credentials. This is a crucial aspect of the system’s security.

* Cloud Management: A centralized cloud platform allows administrators to remotely provision, revoke, and manage access rights for users. This provides granular control and real-time monitoring.

* Hardware Integration: AccessGrid’s technology is compatible with a wide range of existing access control hardware, including readers for doors, gates, vehicles, and more. Retrofitting existing infrastructure is a key benefit.

Benefits of Smartphone-Based Access Control

Switching to a smartphone-based keyless entry system offers numerous advantages over traditional methods:

* Enhanced Security: Digital keys are far more difficult to duplicate or lose than physical keys.Features like remote revocation and access logs provide an added layer of security.

* Convenience & User Experience: No more fumbling for keys! Users can unlock doors, start cars, and access secure areas with a simple tap of their smartphone.

* Cost Savings: Eliminating the need for physical key production, distribution, and re-keying can result in significant cost savings for businesses and property managers.

* Scalability & Versatility: Managing access rights is simplified with a centralized cloud platform, making it easy to scale the system as needs change.

* Improved Audit Trails: Detailed access logs provide valuable insights into who accessed what and when, enhancing accountability and security.

Applications Across Industries

The versatility of accessgrid’s technology makes it applicable to a broad spectrum of industries:

* Property Management: Streamline tenant access to apartments, common areas, and amenities. Reduce the hassle of managing physical keys and improve security. Smart apartment access is a growing trend.

* Automotive: Enable keyless car access and remote vehicle control. Integrate with existing car infotainment systems for a seamless user experience.

* Enterprise Security: Secure access to offices, data centers, and restricted areas. Implement multi-factor authentication for enhanced security.

* Hospitality: Provide guests with convenient and secure access to hotel rooms.Eliminate the need for plastic key cards.

* Parking Management: Control access to parking garages and lots. Integrate with payment systems for automated parking solutions.

Security Considerations & Best Practices

While smartphone-based access control offers significant security advantages, it’s crucial to address potential vulnerabilities. AccessGrid emphasizes the following security measures:

* End-to-End Encryption: All communication between the smartphone, the access control hardware, and the cloud platform is encrypted.

* Secure Element Utilization: Leveraging the secure element within smartphones provides a hardware-based layer of protection for digital credentials.

* Multi-Factor Authentication: Implementing multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security, requiring users to verify their identity through multiple channels.

* Regular Security Audits: Conducting regular security audits and penetration testing helps identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

* Compliance Standards: Adhering to industry-standard security compliance frameworks,such as SOC 2,demonstrates a commitment to data security.

The Future of Access Control: Beyond Key Fobs

AccessGrid’s vision extends beyond simply replacing key fobs with smartphones. Thay are actively exploring integrations with other technologies, such as:

* Wearable Devices: Expanding access control to smartwatches and other wearable devices.

* biometric Authentication: incorporating biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprint scanning and facial recognition, for enhanced security.

* IoT integration: Connecting access control systems to the broader Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem for automated and clever access management.

* Digital Identity Wallets: Integrating with digital identity wallets to streamline access management and enhance user privacy.

Microsoft Dynamics and Access Control Integration

While not directly related to AccessGrid’s core technology, the increasing sophistication of business management software like Microsoft Dynamics (as highlighted by Britannica) demonstrates a broader trend towards integrated, cloud-based solutions.This trend supports the adoption of platforms like AccessGrid, which offer centralized management and real-time data insights. The ability to integrate access control data with broader business systems can provide valuable operational efficiencies and security benefits.