In this episode, Michael Argast, co-founder and CEO of Kobalt.io, shares his journey from tech enthusiast to leader in cybersecurity for small and mid-sized businesses. With a career spanning over two decades, Michael has developed a clear vision: to make robust security accessible for smaller companies that often lack the resources to secure their operations as effectively as larger corporations. Michael explains the initial challenges he faced in establishing Kobalt.io, which grew rapidly due to an underserved market and his deep connections in the cybersecurity industry. Today, Kobalt has expanded globally with clients across Canada, APAC, and Europe, and aims to address the growing security needs of businesses worldwide.

Michael discusses the essential phases of scaling a business, starting with an intense focus on all areas, from sales to customer service. As the company grew, so did its need for strategic hires and partnerships that could facilitate sustainable expansion. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing customer needs over short-term gains, ensuring that their service quality remains high. Michael also dives into his company’s unique approach to client relationships, highlighting how Kobalt aligns its services to support customer growth while maintaining security standards necessary for compliance. Partnerships with companies like RBC and Vanta have proven crucial, helping Kobalt scale quickly and effectively within a highly competitive market.

In terms of growth strategy, Michael elaborates on Cobalt's decision to focus narrowly on the cybersecurity needs of B2B SaaS and health tech startups, particularly those aiming for SOC 2 and ISO certifications. This specialization has allowed Kobalt to refine its services, building valuable trust and creating a repeatable process tailored to these industries. He also shares insights on balancing outbound marketing efforts with strategic partnerships that provide warm introductions—critical in an industry where trust is essential.

The conversation shifts to Michael’s long-term vision, where he explains how Kobalt aims to deliver end-to-end security solutions for small to mid-sized businesses, addressing the majority of their cybersecurity challenges. This expansive goal involves not only geographical expansion but also refining and expanding their service portfolio. Reflecting on the values that drive Kobalt, Michael shares his philosophy on creating a lasting impact in the cybersecurity space, focusing on building a brand grounded in trust, long-term value, and customer success.

For anyone interested in building impactful partnerships, scaling a company, or understanding the cybersecurity landscape for small businesses, this conversation offers essential lessons and valuable insights.

Connect with Michael Argast at Michael@kobalt.io or via linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michaelargast/. For more information about our services, visit nextgengrowth.com.