The security threat to the UK emerging tech industry is growing. But many such businesses remain vulnerable to attack.
Secure Innovation is a campaign to help shore up security for tech companies, especially early-stage and high-growth organisations, providing expertise and financial support such as for subsidised security reviews and towards Cyber Essentials certification.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has provided some further information below.
About Secure Innovation Security Reviews
Secure Innovation Security Reviews offer innovative early-stage UK technology businesses expert, tailored guidance to help protect their ideas, technologies, competitive edge and reputations.
Small and medium sized businesses working in several sensitive/tech sectors, including defence, are eligible to apply for a part funded Secure Innovation Security Review. It is delivered by reviewers trained and approved by the UK’s National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
The review is a high-level observation of an organisation’s overall protective security posture, considering Protective Security Governance, Security Culture, Risk Management, Cyber Security, Supply Chain and Partnerships, and Incident Management.
It is also about informing organisations of security risks, particularly those arising from state threat actors and state backed competitors, and helping them to understand how to better protect themselves.
The long-term goal is for organisations to integrate protective security into their wider business strategy.
The Awards
Participating businesses contribute £500 towards the service, with the remaining £2,500 funded by HMG.
To encourage organisations receiving a security review to progress toward achieving Cyber Essentials certification, a £300 voucher code towards Cyber Essentials will be provided to each organisation undertaking a review.
Cyber Essentials can help every organisation – from micro businesses to large corporations – guard against the most common cyber attacks. The NCSC recommends Cyber Essentials as the minimum standard of cyber security for all organisations.
For more details about the above, eligibility and to apply, visit: https://iuk-business-connect.org.uk/opportunities/secure-innovation-security-review/
For further information on Secure Innovation guidance, please visit: https://www.npsa.gov.uk/specialised-guidance/secure-innovation.
ADS Support
The ADS Ditgital Toolkit
Our new Digital Toolkit for SMEs brings together tailored resources, expert guidance and practical tools to help members navigate complex digital requirements and leverage the full potential of digital transformation for growth.
ADS Digital, Cyber and Resilience Group (DCRG)
The DCRG aims to provide ADS members with the best possible defence against attack and intrusion, whilst also assisting them to take advantage of opportunities that arise through this period of rapid change.
The group is open to all members across our sectors. Even if your company doesn’t work specifically in the cyber and digital space, you may wish to consider your CISO or CTO joining the group to observe.
