First published by Washington Exec
Irina Denisenko’s most impactful recent work centers on strengthening Knox Systems through hiring and venture capital funding — $25 million Series A and bringing aboard Hemant Baidwan, former Department of Homeland Security CISO, as Knox CISO.
“The Knox mission is to unlock cutting-edge technology for the U.S. government and unlock federal revenue for commercial SaaS,” Denisenko said. “Our government currently has access to only about 500 applications, compared to 30,000 available in the commercial market. We’re changing that, one FedRAMP authorization at a time.”
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In 2026, her team is heavily focused on continuing to FedRAMP authorize top-notch SaaS companies for the U.S. government at speed, price and efficiency never seen before — 90 days, for 90% less, she said.
“Knox looks forward to opening our new D.C. office this summer,” she said. “See you there!”
Fun fact: Denisenko is reading the biography of Oliver Cromwell. “2026 is the America 250 milestone, and we have to know where we came from,” she said. “Up next are the U.S. Constitution and the Federalist Papers.”
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